The Abia Project Coordinating Office of the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises for the Niger Delta has announced plans to empower at least 3,000 beneficiaries in agri-enterprises through additional financing. The project coordinator, Uchenna Onyeizu, disclosed this during a working session and orientation for batch one of additional financing regular incubatees and incubators held in Umuahia on Saturday.
The project, funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and implemented in collaboration with the Federal Government and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), aims to support smallholder farmers and promote agribusiness development in Abia communities.
Mr Onyeizu said that the beneficiaries, including youths, women-headed households, and persons with disabilities, would receive training and empowerment in four key commodities: poultry, fishery, rice, and cassava over the next three years. He explained that LIFE-ND, which has already had a significant impact in Abia, empowered about 4,250 beneficiaries in agri-enterprises during the first phase of the project.
He added that IFAD decided to extend the project through additional financing after the success recorded in the first phase. According to him, “The 630 beneficiaries for batch one of the additional financing were selected from 47 communities in Ohafia, Bende, Obingwa, Aba South, Isialangwa South, and Umuahia South Local Government Areas.”
The Abia State Commissioner for Agriculture, Cliff Agbaeze, assured that the ministry would continue to provide policy direction, coordination, and a conducive environment that would make the project successful. He said the initiative aligns with Governor Alex Otti’s vision for agricultural development in Abia State.
Mr Agbaeze urged the trainees to remain focused and committed, saying, “LIFE-ND is not just a programme but a promise that the talents and ambitions of young agripreneurs will be matched with practical skills, mentorship, and market opportunities.”
