In a proactive move to ensure food security in the Niger Delta region, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has forged a partnership with the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN).

Representing NDDC Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Sir Victor Antai, the Executive Director of Projects, made this announcement during a meeting held at the Commission’s headquarters in Port Harcourt. The meeting was attended by a delegation from the farmers’ association, led by RIFAN’s Deputy National President, Mr. Victor Korede.

Sir Victor Antai emphasized the Commission’s commitment to collaborating with RIFAN to develop agriculture in the region, particularly focusing on rice cultivation. He highlighted the importance of adopting a smart agriculture approach to directly benefit the people of the region. Additionally, he noted the presence of two rice mills in the region, one in Elele-Alimi, Rivers State, and the other in Mbiabet-Ikpe, Akwa Ibom State.

The Commission also expressed a keen interest in engaging youths in the region through its flagship program, Holistic Opportunities, Projects, and Engagement (HOPE), with agriculture as a key component.

Antai highlighted the suitability of the Niger Delta for rice cultivation due to its  wetlands, favorable rainfall, and other ecological factors, enabling rice planting at least twice within a farming season. He stressed the importance of meaningful engagement with rice farmers, especially as the region endeavors to transition away from the oil economy towards agriculture, which can offer substantial employment opportunities for youths.

Mr. Emmanuel Anoh, Vice President of RIFAN for the South-South region, reiterated the association’s commitment to showcasing the viability of local food production on a sufficient scale. He highlighted the comparative advantage of the Niger Delta in rice production, citing its abundant arable land, favorable rainfall, and other ecological factors conducive to rice cultivation.

Anoh commended NDDC for its timely interventions and empowerment initiatives, emphasizing the need for collaboration to ensure food security and create employment opportunities for youths.

As part of activities outlined for the meeting the NDDC Executive Director of Projects,  Sir Victor Antai led members of the rice farmers association to inspect the 180-ton-per-day Rice Mill in Elele Alimini, Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State. This marked the second visit of the commission to the mill in the first quarter of 2024. In February 2024, , a delegation led by NDDC Executive Director of Projects visited the mill, following a directive from Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, with the aim of restoring the mill’s operations, starting from rice cultivation, milling, and packaging.

The 180-ton-per-day rice mill in Emohua commenced operations in 2008 and was later leased to Elephant Group PLC, an agri-business company, to ensure sustainability and efficiency. Unfortunately, production ceased in 2022.