LIFE-ND Project: Obaseki pays N147m counterparts fund, coordinator

From Imafidon OSAZUA (Benin)

Gov. Godwin Obaseki of Edo has paid the sum of N147 million as counterparts fund for the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises Project for the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND).

The state project coordinator, Mr John Omoruyi made the disclosure in a statement made available to newsmen in Benin on Monday.

Omoruyi said the payment cover three years counterpart fund for the project meant to create wealth, sustainable job, and ensure food security in the participating states.

He disclosed that the N147 payment is for 2022, 2023 and 2024 counterpart fund.

Omoruyi, the Govenror has been commended by the National Project Coordinator, NPC, LIFE-ND, Engr Sanni Abiodun for the prompt payment. 

"This is in line with the consistent desire of the Federal and State Governments of Nigeria and the International Fund for Agricultural Development, IFAD, to attain sustainable job and wealth creation as well as ensure food security in Nigeria," he stated.

He said that Obaseki is the first Governor in the country to pay its counterpart fund up to date.

Abiodun called on other participating States to emulate Edo state Governor in this regard.

The Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises Project for the Niger Delta, LIFE-ND, directly supports Nigeria’s agricultural policy and the strategic framework for youth employment and job creation.

Omoruyi also said that the payment of N147 million counterpart funds to LIFE-ND will enable the State access funds for the ongoing transformation of rural economy via agribusiness in the State.

He further said that the Governor, through the LIFE-ND project in Edo State has supported to promote food security and job creation for women and youths across the State. 

"Governor Obaseki has done well to restate his commitment to sustainable development of the agricultural sector by promoting modern farming techniques, supporting smallholders farmers, encouraging value addition and fostering agribusiness innovations.

"Furthermore, this feat by the Obaseki administration will not only contribute to economic growth but also enhace food security, reduce poverty and empower rural communities in Edo State," he said.

According to Omoruyi, LIFE-ND as of today in Edo State has created jobs for 2,348 women and youth enterprises out of the targeted 4,250 across the participating ten Local Government Areas and 100 communities across the State.

He said the release of this counterpart fund by the Governor, will further create employment for over 2,500 women and youths targeted for year 2024.

"This is in addition to boosting agricultural productivity and value addition across four commodities’  (rice, cassava, poultry and Fishery) value chains," he stated.

The LIFE-ND Project is being implemented currently following Niger-Delta States: Abia, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Ondo.