NDDC Pledges To Boost Agricultural Productivity In The Niger Delta

New York, NY – The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has announced its commitment to leveraging technology and partnerships to enhance agricultural productivity in its mandate states.

Speaking at the opening session of the NDDC Food Security Innovation and Investment Summit in New York City, Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, represented by NDDC Executive Director, Projects, Sir Victor Antai, emphasised the Commission’s dedication to creating an enabling environment for investors by streamlining processes and offering incentives for agricultural ventures.

“We are committed to seeking innovative solutions to address food security in the Niger Delta,” said Ogbuku.  “This includes exploring partnerships with governments, private sectors, and research institutions to create an ecosystem that fosters agricultural innovation.”

The NDDC outlined several key approaches to achieving its goals:

• Adoption of Modern Farming Techniques: The Commission will encourage and support adopting modern and innovative farming practices.
• Biotechnology for crop resilience: Investing in biotechnology will be a priority to strengthen crops against environmental challenges.
• Data Analytics for Resource Management: Utilising data analytics will improve resource management for optimal productivity.

Ogbuku highlighted the need for significant investment in infrastructure, such as storage, preservation facilities, and irrigation systems, to reduce post-harvest losses and improve food distribution networks.

He also acknowledged the importance of securing grants and technical expertise from international organisations and NGOs to scale up food security efforts.

The summit is a platform to foster collaborations and knowledge sharing between stakeholders, including government representatives, NGOs, and private investors.

Dr. Ogbuku urged attendees to commit to action: “Let us work collaboratively towards innovative solutions that will empower farmers, support local economies, and ensure no one goes hungry.”

The Niger Delta’s vision for the region includes economic prosperity, social stability, ecological regeneration, and political peace. This commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity is a significant step towards achieving these goals.

The summit saw presentations from global investor organisations and companies, including Biotech Incorporated, Tokes Consulting Incorporated (Canada), Alliance for Food Security Action in Africa (AFSAA), and Convergence Finances.

All expressed their commitment to partnering with the NDDC towards achieving increased agricultural productivity and sustainable food security in the Niger Delta region.