The Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises (LIFE) programme stands as one of Nigeria’s most strategic instruments for tackling rural poverty, unemployment and food insecurity in the Niger Delta and beyond, its National Coordinator, Dr Abiodun Sanni, has said.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Dr Sanni described LIFE as a decisive shift from subsistence farming to enterprise‑driven agribusiness across the region. The project, a joint effort of the Federal Government, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), focuses on youth and women in rural communities – groups often excluded from mainstream economic opportunities.
“LIFE is more than agriculture; it is a platform for economic empowerment, social inclusion and sustainable development,” Dr Sanni said.
Since its launch in February 2019, the scheme has operated in Abia, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Ondo states, with NDDC funding extending work to Akwa Ibom, Imo and Rivers. The coordinator listed its goals as raising incomes, boosting food security and creating jobs by building viable agri‑enterprises, while also curbing youth unrest.
After six years, the project has delivered measurable results and secured $32 million in additional financing for a three‑year expansion beginning in March 2025. Dr Sanni added that LIFE prioritises high‑potential value chains: rice, cassava, plantain, oil palm, cocoa, poultry and fisheries.
“Gender inclusion is central, with women forming a significant share of empowered participants,” he noted.
The new phase is expected to reach more than 13,000 incubates and deliver business services to over 51,000 beneficiaries. “This expansion is strategic to deepen impact, scale innovation and strengthen institutions,” Dr Sanni said.
A joint supervision mission across participating states, including Edo, will assess progress and guide implementation. According to the coordinator, the mission will also amplify achievements, boost partnerships and enhance accountability among stakeholders.
