NDDC Boosts Food Security with Edo Rice Harvest 

NDDC. Photo Credit: NDDC Facebook

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has celebrated the first successful harvest from its Rice and Cassava Farmers Empowerment Programme in Warrake, Owan East Local Government Area, Edo State. The initiative highlights the commission’s efforts to enhance food security and agricultural development in the Niger Delta region. 

A Landmark Agricultural Achievement 

Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, NDDC Managing Director, represented by Dr. Winifred Madume, Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, hailed the project as a turning point in regional farming. Speaking at the harvest event, he commended the adoption of full mechanization and good farming practices, despite challenges like unpredictable seasonal changes.This farm demonstrates resilience and commitment, ensuring work continues year-round,” Ogbuku remarked. 

Programme Overview 

Launched on June 5, 2024, with an onboarding ceremony in Port Harcourt, the programme has engaged farmers from communities across the Niger Delta, including Rivers and Akwa Ibom States. Despite initial skepticism due to past disappointments, participating farmers and community leaders have embraced the initiative. The Warrake rice farm spans 98 hectares, of which 50 hectares are currently cultivated. The programme aims to expand all-season farming, particularly in flood-prone areas, to boost food production sustainably. 

Encouraging Collaboration and Security 

Ogbuku emphasized the importance of collaboration between the NDDC, farmers, and consultants for the programme’s long-term success. He also extended gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing food security and to the Warrake community for providing land and support. The traditional ruler of Warrake, HRH Alimu Ogbeidu, represented by community leaders, highlighted the critical role of food security and called for improved security measures and better road access to the farm. 

This farm demonstrates resilience and commitment, ensuring work continues year-round. Today’s harvest serves as a milestone in a journey that is far from complete but has certainly begun on a strong footing.” 

— Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, NDDC Managing Director (represented by Dr. Winifred Madume) 

Sustaining the Programme 

Proceeds from the harvest will be reinvested to sustain the programme while directly benefiting participating farmers. Mr. Dimieari Kennedi, the project’s consultant, expressed optimism about the region regaining its status as an agricultural leader, particularly in rice and cassava farming. Ogbuku noted that lessons from this first harvest will guide future improvements as the initiative expands across the region. “This marks the start of a transformative journey for food production in the Niger Delta,” he concluded. The NDDC’s efforts represent a step towards turning agriculture into a sustainable and profitable sector for the region. 

In conclusion, the NDDC’s Rice and Cassava Farmers Empowerment Programme marks a significant stride toward food security and agricultural revitalization in the Niger Delta. The successful harvest in Warrake not only showcases the potential of mechanized farming but also highlights the commitment of farmers, communities, and stakeholders to sustainable development. As the initiative grows, its lessons and achievements will serve as a model for transforming agriculture into a resilient and economically viable sector, benefiting both farmers and the region at large.