In a bid to strengthen agricultural entrepreneurship and drive local economic growth, the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprise in the Niger Delta (LIFE‑ND) has formally inducted 630 new participants into its incubation program in Cross River State.
The induction, which took place on Monday, emphasised discipline, commitment, and long-term planning as key ingredients for success in agribusiness.
Speaking at the one-day orientation session, Dr. Sani Abiodun, the National Project Coordinator of LIFE‑ND, reminded the new incubatees that their selection was a unique opportunity rather than a government handout.
Represented by Dr. Chinwe Onyegbula, Liaison Officer of the FGN/IFAD Country Programme Advisory Team, Abiodun encouraged participants to view agriculture as a profitable venture, not just a subsistence activity.
“Building a successful agribusiness is a marathon, not a sprint. You must be patient, consistent, and willing to invest in developing sustainable enterprises.
This program is designed to equip you with the skills and resources to succeed,” he said.
The orientation also featured remarks from Mr. Johnson Ebokpo, Cross River State Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, who urged the participants to shed outdated perceptions of farming as menial work.
He compared the LIFE‑ND model to the traditional Igbo apprenticeship system, where practical experience and mentorship guide young people toward becoming independent business owners.
To motivate outstanding performance, Ebokpo announced a N500,000 award for the top-performing incubee, underlining the importance of excellence and innovation.
Mr. Innocent Ogbin, State Project Coordinator for LIFE‑ND, noted that the programme had empowered over 4,370 beneficiaries since its inception.
He added that the “Additional Financing Component” under which the new cohort was enrolled would continue until 2028.
”This phase targets youths, women, and persons with disabilities across six local government areas: Biase, Akpabuyo, Yakurr, Obubra, Ogoja, and Yala.
“The success of this initiative depends entirely on your commitment and dedication. Remember, the program is not about handouts, it is about building livelihoods and contributing to your community’s economic growth,” Ogbin said, warning against misuse of project resources.
Also addressing the participants, Mr. Bassey Emogor, Programme Manager of the Agriculture Development Programme (ADP), highlighted LIFE‑ND as an apolitical and inclusive initiative that empowers genuine farmers.
He stressed the importance of leveraging the training, tools, and resources provided to create sustainable businesses that can employ others and stimulate local economies.
The LIFE‑ND project is a collaboration between the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.
Launched six years ago in Cross River, the initiative has empowered thousands of rural youths and women and recently secured additional funding to continue until 2028.
“This is not about cash giveaways. It is about creating knowledge-driven, profitable agricultural businesses that can transform the Niger Delta,” Emogor concluded.
The induction event marks a significant milestone in LIFE‑ND’s ongoing mission to develop human capacity, boost local food production, and foster entrepreneurship among rural communities in Cross River State.
