A Federal Government intervention project, Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises, Niger Delta (LIFE-ND), has launched the Agribusiness Innovative Forum (LAbIF) to create jobs and empower farmers in Bayelsa State.
LIFE-ND is funded by the Federal Government, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), in collaboration with the Bayelsa State government.
Speaking at the event on Monday in Yenagoa, the State Project Coordinator of LIFE-ND, Dr Panebi Ugo, hinted that agribusiness had become central to Nigeria’s economy.
Ugo was represented by Knowledge Management and Communication Officer, LIFE ND Bayelsa, Mr Diweri Akah,.
According to him, the platform was a culmination of efforts by the organisation in conjunction with various stakeholders to provide a conducive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship.
“The LiFE-ND agribusiness innovation forum is conceived to support our beneficiaries, agriprenuers and other stakeholders in the agricultural value chain.
“The forum will provide access to finance, market and training as well as foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders.
“Our goal is to create a vibrant agricultural ecosystem in Bayelsa State driven by innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable practice.
“We believe that the platform will play a critical role in achieving this goal and contribute to the economic development of our dear state.
“The programme is also in tandem with the ASSURED agenda of Governor Douye Diri-led government, whose priorities are sustainable agricultural services.
“The programme will help the state’s economic development, infrastructure, human development and good governance to the people.
“Let me use this opportunity to thank our governor, Douye Diri for his unwavering support to this noble project,” Ugo said.
He lauded the support of the project partners and stakeholders for making it a success.
On his part, Rural Institute Coordinator, LIFE-ND, Mr Clement Uwem, said that the launch of LAbIF was an excellent opportunity for a maximum benefit from agrobusiness.
He said that the agribusiness represented a multi stakeholders’ platform for off-takers.
In her speech, the Coordinator, Nigeria Promotion Export Council, Mrs Syvia Adeneye, said the council was committed to penetrating the international market and keeping standard for exported goods.
She said that the council’s target in Bayelsa State was seafood to penetrate the international market at any given time.
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