The Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to sustaining and expanding the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Jerry Uwangue, stated this in Benin during the wrap-up of the Fifth Joint Supervision Mission of the Federal Government (FGN), Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) LIFE-ND Project.
The joint initiative, implemented by the Federal Government, NDDC, and IFAD, aims to enhance rural livelihoods through agribusiness development, youth empowerment, and food systems transformation across the Niger Delta region.
Uwangue said the eight-day mission marked another milestone in the collective efforts of partners to promote agricultural productivity and inclusive economic growth.
He added that Edo’s collaboration with IFAD and NDDC under the proposed LIFE-ND Plus Initiative was designed to consolidate achievements and extend project benefits to more communities and beneficiaries.
“Agriculture remains central to Edo’s economic diversification agenda.
We are committed to strengthening food systems, promoting value addition, and creating market opportunities for farmers and agribusinesses,” he said.
The IFAD Country Director in Nigeria, Mrs. Dede Ekoue, represented by the Country Programme Analyst, Dr. Ogunniyi Adebayo, described LIFE-ND as “a movement of hope, resilience, and transformation for young Nigerians.”
He commended the innovation and enterprise displayed by beneficiaries across the region, noting that the project had continued to unlock productivity among youths and women.
“From our field visits, LIFE-ND stands as a living testimony of how targeted investments in youth and women can transform communities.
IFAD remains committed to scaling up this success through additional financing,” Adebayo said.
Also, the National Project Coordinator of LIFE-ND, Dr. Abiodun Sanni, said the mission provided an opportunity to assess progress, share lessons, and strengthen sustainability strategies.
“The LIFE-ND project has proven to be a model of partnership — empowering youths and women, building viable agribusinesses, and promoting inclusive rural transformation.
Going forward, access to finance and climate resilience remain key priorities,” Sanni said.
In his closing remarks, the Edo Project Coordinator, Mr. John Omoruyi, appreciated the mission team for their professionalism, dedication, and constructive feedback.
“Your guidance will enhance our implementation strategies and long-term impact,” Omoruyi said.
He reaffirmed Edo State Government’s commitment to implementing the agreed action points with renewed vigour and accountability.
It was reported that the mission brought together representatives of the Federal Government, NDDC, IFAD, and participating states to review project performance, engage beneficiaries, and chart a roadmap for the next phase of the LIFE-ND initiative.
