BY GABRIEL OKECHUKWU, FRCN PORT HARCOURT
Executive Director Projects, Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC, Sir Victor Antai says the commission is poised to conquer hunger in Niger Delta region and other parts of the country through farming.
Sir Antai who made the commitment during inspection of farm clusters in Akwa Ibom state, maintained that the region can grow economically outside oil.
He explained that NDDC intends to train many youths in commercial agriculture through its’ empowerment initiative, christened Project HOPE, – Holistic Opportunity Programmes of Engagement, to make them self-reliant.
The Executive Director projects who expressed happiness over the zeal of the farmers, assured them of the resolve of the agency to support them to increase capacity and create jobs
On his part, one of the commercial farmers, Mr. Aniebet Antia who told NDDC delegation that commercial agriculture was capital intensive, stated that he has trained some youths in the practice and would be willing to train and employ more with support.
According to him, Copra, padma and platinum are three varieties of tomatoes that could produce high yield in Niger Delta Area.
Similarly, owner of one of the farms visited, Mr. Kufre Joseph said he has planted different vegetables such as cucumber, cabbage, watermelon, garden egg, varieties of tomatoes among others in his farm.
The farmers while appreciating NDDC for identifying with them, expressed confidence that Niger Delta region environment was agricultural friendly.
About five different farms in Uyo, Ibiono Ibom and Itu Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State were inspected.
