The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) recently celebrated a major achievement in its Rice and Cassava Farmers Empowerment Programme, highlighted by the first harvest at Warrake in Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State. During this momentous event, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the NDDC Managing Director, represented by Dr. Winifred Madume, the Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, touted the initiative as a significant advancement for agriculture in the Niger Delta region. The successful harvest not only underscores the shift towards full mechanization—spanning land preparation to harvesting—but also emphasizes the adoption of good agronomic practices to address challenges posed by varied weather conditions. This development signifies a durable commitment to agricultural improvement as the NDDC continues to strive for food security in the region.
Launched on June 5, 2024, the programme began with an onboarding ceremony in Port Harcourt, designed to formally introduce participating communities, including farmers from Rivers and Akwa Ibom States. Ogbuku acknowledged initial doubts expressed by community leaders and farmers rooted in prior disappointments, yet he recognized their perseverance and dedication. This first harvest stands as a symbolic landmark, representing the commencement of a much larger journey towards the transformation of agricultural practices. Encouraging collaborative efforts among the NDDC, farmers, and consultants, Ogbuku expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing food security and sustainable development initiatives across the Niger Delta region.
The rice farm in Warrake spans approximately 98 hectares, with 50 hectares currently cultivated, showcasing the extensive potential for agricultural development in the area. Mr. Dimieari Kennedi, the NDDC Consultant for the project, emphasized the opportunity for the region to reclaim its role as a leading force in agriculture, especially in rice and cassava farming. This sentiment resonated with the local community leaders, including the Traditional Ruler of Warrake, HRH Alimu Ogbeidu, who highlighted the critical importance of food security. He called upon the Federal Government to enhance security measures for farmers and emphasized the need for infrastructure improvements, such as access roads to facilitate farming operations.
In addition to recognizing the significance of the harvest, Ogbuku expressed appreciation for the support from the Warrake community, acknowledging their role in providing land for the initiative and fostering a conducive environment for the project to thrive. He commended the dedication of the farmers, noting that the proceeds from the harvest would be instrumental in sustaining the programme and ensuring that participants receive direct benefits from their effort. These financial returns not only motivate the farmers but also contribute to the broader goal of community upliftment and economic resilience in the region.
The lessons gleaned from this inaugural harvest are envisioned to guide the continuous improvement of the NDDC’s agricultural initiatives as they seek to replicate this success throughout the Niger Delta region. Ogbuku elaborated on the NDDC’s broader vision to promote all-season farming, particularly in flood-prone areas, aiming to transform agriculture into a sustainable and economically viable sector. By addressing systemic challenges and leveraging local expertise, the NDDC is poised to catalyze a revitalization of the agricultural landscape within the Niger Delta, thereby enhancing the livelihood of local farmers and ensuring long-term food security.
As stakeholders reflect on this landmark event, hopes are high that the Warrake harvest is merely the beginning of a transformative journey for food production and agriculture in the Niger Delta region. The collective efforts of the NDDC, the community, and farmers herald a new era of agricultural practices that prioritize sustainability, economic viability, and resilience against seasonal challenges. By laying a strong foundation through initiatives like the Rice and Cassava Farmers Empowerment Programme, the NDDC is not only addressing immediate food security needs but is also fostering an environment for enduring agricultural development and community empowerment.
