NDDC boosts food security with Edo harvest

The Niger Delta Development Commission says it has achieved a significant milestone in its Rice and Cassava Farmers Empowerment Programme with the first harvest in Warrake, Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State.

Speaking at the event on the rice farm, NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, represented by the Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, Dr Winifred Madume, described the achievement as a landmark in advancing agriculture in the Niger Delta region.

“This farm’s success is significant because it has adopted full mechanisation, from land preparation to harvesting, alongside good agronomic practices. Despite seasonal changes, work continues, demonstrating the resilience of this initiative,” he said in a statement.

The programme commenced on June 5, 2024, with an onboarding ceremony at the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt, where participating communities were formally introduced. Farmers from across the Niger Delta region, including Rivers and Akwa Ibom States, have since joined the initiative.

Ogbuku acknowledged the initial skepticism of community leaders and farmers, citing past disappointments, but praised their commitment. “Today’s harvest serves as a milestone in a journey that is far from complete but has certainly begun on a strong footing,” he added.

He encouraged continued collaboration between the NDDC, farmers, and consultants. He also thanked President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing food security and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.

Meanwhile, he noted that the Warrake rice farm covers approximately 98 hectares, with 50 hectares cultivated.

On his part, the NDDC Consultant for the project, Mr Dimieari Kennedi, emphasised the region’s potential to regain its status as a leader in agriculture, particularly in rice and cassava farming.

Also, the Traditional ruler of Warrake, HRH Alimu Ogbeidu, represented by community leaders, underscored the importance of food security.

He appealed to the Federal Government for improved security measures for farmers and urged the NDDC to construct access roads to the farm.

Ogbuku further expressed gratitude to the Warrake community for providing the land and fostering a supportive environment for the project.

He also commended the farmers for their dedication, noting that proceeds from the harvest would help sustain the programme while ensuring direct benefits to participants.

“The lessons from this inaugural farm will guide the continuous improvement of the programme as we replicate this success across the region,” Ogbuku stated.

“With plans to expand all-season farming in flood-prone areas, the NDDC aims to transform agriculture in the Niger Delta into a sustainable and economically viable sector. The Warrake harvest marks the beginning of what stakeholders hope will be a transformative journey for food production in the region,” Ogbuku added.