NDDC trains Abia youths in rice farming
In a strategic move to enhance agricultural productivity and food security in the Niger Delta, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has launched a commercial-scale rice farming training program for youths in Abia State. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to boost agribusiness in the region and foster self-sufficiency in rice production.
The training, themed “Capacity Building on Commercial Scale Rice Production and Processing,” engaged over 260 young participants, equipping them with modern techniques in rice cultivation and processing. According to Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director and CEO of NDDC, the program is designed to encourage high-yield agriculture and ensure a more sustainable food system.
Additionally, Mr. Wale Oretan, representing Dr. Winifred Madume, the Deputy Director, stated that more than 300 youths have benefited from similar training programs, reinforcing NDDC’s commitment to building a skilled agribusiness workforce. To ensure long-term impact, participants were encouraged to transfer their acquired knowledge to fellow farmers, thereby expanding the reach of improved rice farming practices.
To support their journey, trainees received high-quality rice seeds and hands-on training in advanced farming techniques, ensuring they can adopt best practices in production and processing.
Source- Guardian
Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
This initiative by the NDDC is a commendable step toward improving local rice production and reducing dependency on imports. However, to maximize impact, certain factors must be considered:
- Post-Training Support & Market Linkages
Training alone is insufficient without follow-up support. Establishing access to finance, mechanization services, and market networks will be crucial to ensure that participants transition from training to practical, commercial-scale production. - Sustainability of the Initiative
To avoid short-term gains, policy integration and collaboration with stakeholders such as agribusiness investors, cooperatives, and local governments should be prioritized. This will help in scaling up the initiative beyond the training phase. - Adoption of Climate-Smart Practices
Given the climatic challenges in Nigeria’s rice belt, training should incorporate climate-resilient farming techniques, such as water-efficient irrigation systems and flood-resistant rice varieties. - Value Chain Expansion
Beyond production, processing and branding of locally produced rice should be emphasized to increase competitiveness. Encouraging small-scale rice mills and aggregation centers can improve profitability for trained farmers. - Monitoring & Impact Assessment
NDDC should establish a framework for tracking the progress of beneficiaries to measure their productivity, profitability, and contribution to regional food security.
By addressing these considerations, this initiative can transition from a training exercise to a transformative agribusiness model, reinforcing the Niger Delta’s position in Nigeria’s rice value chain.
