In a significant boost for youth employment and agricultural development, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), in partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria, has facilitated the creation of 24,000 youth-led agribusiness enterprises across the Niger Delta.

The initiative is part of the LIFE-ND (Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises – Niger Delta) programme, a collaborative project involving IFAD, the Federal Government, and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). The programme aims to promote sustainable livelihoods, enhance food security, and generate jobs for rural youths and women.

Unlike traditional funding models, LIFE-ND employs an incubation approach, pairing aspiring agripreneurs with experienced mentors who provide training, guidance, and business support. The initiative spans various sectors, including crop production, livestock farming, aquaculture, and agro-processing.

Speaking on the project’s impact, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, emphasized the government’s commitment to positioning agriculture as a driver of economic transformation under its “Renewed Hope Agenda.” He highlighted the programme as a model for fostering youth entrepreneurship and boosting rural economies.

IFAD Country Director, Dede Ekoue, described LIFE-ND as an internationally recognized model for sustainable agribusiness development, pledging continued support to scale up the initiative beyond the Niger Delta.

The programme has already facilitated the establishment of nearly 24,000 youth-led agribusinesses. Officials say the next phase aims to expand the model nationally, further driving inclusive growth and enhancing food security in Nigeria. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.