By Akpos Oghenetega,
The Managing Director and CEO of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has urged participants in the Livestock Farming & Agro Processing training program to use the knowledge gained as a foundation to establish their own agribusinesses.
Dr. Ogbuku made this statement during the flag-off ceremony of the Training & Empowerment of 200 Women and Youths in Livestock Farming & Agro Processing for Rivers West Senatorial District, Rivers State, held on Tuesday at Okiemute Farms, Amukpe, Sapele, Delta State.
Represented by the Delta State Representative, Rt. Hon. Chief Monday Ovwigho Igbuya, Dr. Ogbuku emphasized the importance of agriculture in promoting food security and sustainable growth in the Niger Delta region. He noted that NDDC’s agricultural initiatives aim to uplift the socio-economic lives of residents while contributing to peace and stability in the area.
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A cross section of the trainees[/caption]
"This Livestock/Agro Processing Training & Empowerment Programme aligns with the core mandate of the NDDC, as established by law," he said. "Our agricultural programs are designed to foster economic growth and development, directly supporting the Federal Government’s agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to drive infrastructural development, food security, and poverty alleviation."
Dr. Ogbuku highlighted the need for skilled manpower in achieving these goals, adding that the NDDC Board and Management prioritize agricultural skills training such as the livestock and agro-processing program being launched. He encouraged participants to take full advantage of the training and start their ventures, emphasizing, "You start small and grow big! Leverage this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge in livestock farming and extend it to others in your communities."
The NDDC MD also praised the choice of Okiemute Farms as the training center, noting its modern facilities and conducive environment will enhance learning. He called on state governors in the region to partner with the NDDC and private sector to establish similar centers to boost food security across the Niger Delta.
In her presentation titled "The Role of NDDC in Agriculture," Dr. Winifred Madume, Director of Agriculture and Fisheries at the NDDC, reiterated the Commission’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote agricultural development in the region. She said, "Let us seize this opportunity to work collectively towards a future where the Niger Delta is not just known for oil, but also as a powerhouse of agriculture."
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Delta State Representative, in NDDC, Rt. Hon. Chief Monday Ovwigho Igbuya, flanked by other directors and resources persons during the trainings flag-off[/caption]
Dr. God’swill B. Ukoikpoko, Head/Director of Livestock and Veterinary Services at the Rivers State Ministry of Agriculture, presented a paper on the "Overview of Livestock Development in the Niger Delta." He lamented the region's neglect of livestock development despite its potential, warning that many indigenous animal breeds unique to the Niger Delta are at risk of extinction.
"The Niger Delta is rich in agricultural, commercial, and industrial activities, especially in the oil and gas sectors," Dr. Ukoikpoko said. "However, there has been gross neglect of the livestock sector. Indigenous breeds with unique traits are being consumed at alarming rates, and minimal attention is being given to preserving and promoting local livestock production."
He also pointed out that many research and demonstration farms have become defunct, resulting in a growing reliance on livestock imports from northern Nigeria. Dr. Ukoikpoko decried the rise in poaching, mistreatment of livestock, and theft in the region, stressing the urgent need for renewed focus on livestock development.
As the training program continues, the NDDC remains committed to providing participants with the tools and support needed to establish their farms. Trainees will receive starter packages upon completing the program, aimed at helping them launch their livestock farming ventures and contribute to regional food security.
