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Agriculture

LIFE-ND has greatly impacted us – Delta beneficiaries

 

LIFE-ND has greatly impacted us – Delta beneficiaries

LIFE-ND incubatees tensing their birds at Oza Nogogo, Ika East LGA, Delta 

 

LIFE-ND established 30 hectares of cassava farm for 10 incubatees of the project at Urhoka, Ethiope East LGA, Delta

 

LIFE-ND Incubator(Trainer) Mr Saint-Paul Oraka,(L) and two incubatees showcasing fufu-garri produced by them on Friday in Urhoka, Delta

 

Beneficiaries
By Ifeanyi Olannye
Aboh(Delta), Dec. 30, 2022(NAN) Some beneficiaries of the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) Project in Delta have lauded the project for impacting them by improving their livelihood.
The incubatees (beneficiaries) who spoke with newsmen on Friday on their experiences and benefits at the various project centres visited in the state, said that LIFE-ND project was real and had no rival.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that LIFE-ND is a Federal Government of Nigeria initiatives which was supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the nine participating states in the Niger Delta Region.
Mrs Idu Ossai, an incubatees in Aboh, Ndokwa East Local Government Area of the state, said she was trained on fisheries by the LIFE-ND appointed incubator(trainer).
According to her, the project has equipped her with the needed skills to become a mother, who can take care of a home.
“I appreciate the project, sincerely, we have never seen this before, it is real and impacting directly and indirectly the lives of people in rural communities.
“The project took me, trained me from the start to the end and established me with the needed agribusiness equipment and some financial support to sustain my business.”
On her part, Mercy Ozakpolo,  a mother of three children, said that LIFE-ND has given her life a meaning by putting food on her table.
“I am from Oza Nogogo, in Ika South LGA of Delta and a mother of three children. It is by the grace of God that we become  beneficiary of the LIFE-ND project.
“Before now, I was not doing anything but struggling for survival until LIFE-ND selected me to benefit in this poultry programme and since  then, my life has changed for better.
“The LIFE-ND built this structure with a battery cage and stocked it with 500 day old chick, poultry feeds and cash support for each of the incubatees  (beneficiaries) of the programme to enable us nurture the birds to maturity(eight weeks) here in Oza Nogogo community.
Another poultry incubatee , Emmanuel Omorege, who was unemployed before the engagement lauded the project for impacting him positively.
“With this intervention, my level of survival is high and I can meet up with the demand of life, thanks to LIFE-ND.
On her part, Elizabeth Akpan, an Incubatee of Casava Processing at Urhoka, Abraka in Ethiope East LGA, lauded the LIFE-ND for impacting her positively.
She said that she learnt a lot from the trainer (Incubator) on how to process cassava to fufu-garri, starch, garri and poultry feed among others.
According to her, life is better now compared to before when the project has not impacted them.
“With this training, me and my partners can process cassava tubers from the farm to finish products and market them to make money for our families.
“We truly appreciate the LIFE-ND project and also pray that it could be sustained to enable more people benefit and to create jobs and wealth for our people.
On his part, LIFE-ND Incubator(Trainer) Mr Saint-Paul Oraka, said that the five incubatees asigned to him under the project, had learned the routine of cassava processing into fufu-garri, starch, garri and ethanol among others.
“According to Oraka, fufu-garri is better taking by diabetic patients and is recommended for everyone because it has less starch and sugar content is low.
“So, I encouraged the incubatees to produce more of fufu-garri than ordinary garri.
” It is cost effective and demand for it is rising daily and as we speak, we have began a process of mass production for both local consumption and for export.”
Oraka,said that to meet his daily raw material need, he had cultivated over 400 hectares of cassava farm.
He said that he would also offtake the 30 hectare cassava farm established by LIFE-ND for 10 incubatees at Urhoka Community in Ethiope East LGA of the state.
According to Oraka, one hectare of cassava farm will yield about 15 tonnes of cassava at harvest annually.
NAN also reports that LIFE-ND built 10 lock-up shops for Emu Obodoti Community in Ndokwa Wast LGA of the state.
It constructed Oil Palm Processing Mill at Ute-Okpu Community in Ika North East LGA of the state.
It also built Poultry Building (Battery Cage) at Oza Nogogo, Ika South LGA and Cassava Processing Mill at Aboh, Ndokwa East LGA of the state and counting.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
IO/IAA
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Edited by Isaac Aregbesola
Politics

2023:God ‘ll determine next president not G-5 Govs – Okowa 

2023:God’ll determine next president not G-5 Govs – Okowa

By Ifeanyi Olannye

Aboh(Delta), Dec. 30,2022(NAN) Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta and Vice Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),on Friday said God would determine Nigeria’s next President and not the action of G-5 governors.

Okowa made the statement in Aboh, when he led Delta PDP campaign train to Ndokwa East and Ndokwa West Local Government Areas of the state.

He expressed confidence that the five governors would put the past behind them and work for the victory of PDP in the 2023 general elections.

“God has said it that we, the PDP, will win this election. Many things may be happening now and people may be asking what about the G-5 governors.

“These governors are our brothers; everybody is important. But what God has said will happen, nobody can change it.

“So even if some of them decide to support APC, some will still remain with us because there will be division among them.

“The real truth is that I have strong political eyes and I have observed that no matter what they do, PDP will win the forthcoming election, by the grace of God.

“It is only the power of God that can help us to win. So, no matter what the G-5 said that they would work with APC or any other party, we will win”,he said.

Okowa said the PDP would bring the desired change in the country and urged Nigerians to vote the party gor progress

“We all know that the candidate of APC is not good enough to be our president.

“Also we know that Labour Party is not going anywhere and we need to sweet talk the party supporters not to waste their votes.

“Those supporters wishing to vote for Labour Party are only indirectly helping APC and trying to reduce the vote of PDP.

“So, please go and plead with Labour Party supporters to return to PDP and join hands with us to change Nigeria for the better.

“We ,the PDP ,are ready to change the so-called previous change. Therefore, everyone should go and get his or her PVC,” he said.

Okowa charged the people to embark on house-to-house, market-to-market campaign to convince the people to support PDP’s rescue mission.

He said the ticket of Atiku and Okowa would bring about a united Nigeria and a booming economy driven by the private sector.

Okowa added that the PDP would restructure the country and would make money available for states and local governments to embark on projects.

The governorship candidate of the party, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, said he would complete the ongoing construction of Beneku Bridge and Phase 3 and 4 of Ashaka road if the Okowa administration could not.

He described his running mate, Chief Monday Onyeme, as a reliable, competent and very articulate professional, who would bring his many years of experience to bear on the administration.

The State Chairman of the PDP, Chief Kingsley Esiso, who presented flags to candidates, said the party had solutions to all challenges confronting the nation.

“I am very happy because APC days are numbered and PDP is coming on a rescue mission to reset Nigeria.

“All over Delta state, our people are happy with the Atiku-Okowa ticket because since the creation of Nigeria no Deltan has ever come close to Aso Rock.

“But by the special grace of God and with your support, our dear governor will become the next Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”,he said.

Director-General of the State Campaign Council, Chief Funkekeme Solomon, thanked the people for their assurances and urged them to translate their support into massive votes for the PDP on election day. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
IO/BHB

Edited by Buhari Bolaji

General news

Okowa mourns Ohanaeze President, Prof. Obiozor

 

Death
By Ifeanyi Olannye

Asaba, Dec. 30, 2022 (NAN) Gov. Ifeanyi Olowa  of Delta and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the PDP has condoled with the family of renowned diplomat, scholar and President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Prof. George Obiozor.

According to Okowa, Obiozor  reportedly passed on Wednesday at 80, after a brief illness.

The governor’s condolence was conveyed in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Olisa Ifeajika,  in Asaba.
He described the deceased as an accomplished and erudite scholar, renowned author and seasoned diplomat, adding that he was an epitome of selflessness and statesmanship..
He said that Nigerians would miss his unblemished services to the nation and to the international community, and prayed that God would raise more persons in Obiozor’s mould in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic firmament.

He joined family members, the academia, the diplomatic community and the Igbo nation in mourning the renowned scholar, who was elected as the President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo on Jan. 9, 2021.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I condole with the deceased’s family, the academia, ndi Igbo worldwide, particularly Imo state, on the passing of the renowned diplomat and Igbo leader, Professor George Obiozor.

“We received the news of his passing with shock, but thanked God that he lived a life of great impact and contributed immensely to the international diplomacy and national development.

“As a great patriot and elder statesman, Prof. Obiozor made significant contributions to the growth and stability of our nation through his selfless service to the country and humanity.

“As President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, he displayed an uncommon wisdom and irrepressible courage in his service to the Igbo nation.

“He will be greatly missed by those whose lives he impacted and inspired in very many ways,” the governor stated.

Okowa prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed professor, and for God to comfort his family.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

IO/CHOM
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Edited by Chioma Ugboma
Agriculture

FGN/IFAD LIFE-ND approves N9.7m for 48 farmers affected by flood in Delta

FGN/IFAD LIFE-ND approves N9.7m for 48 farmers affected by flood in Delta

At the inauguration of Cassava Processing Mill Building and  the Disbursement of the IFAD Flood Recovery and Intervention Funds and Inputs Distribution to the Flood Victims on Thursday  at Aboh, Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta.
Delta LIFE-ND Project Coordinator, Mr Collins Ashoro, addressing participants
at the  Disbursement of the IFAD Flood Recovery and Intervention Funds and Inputs Distribution to the Flood Victims on Thursday at Aboh, Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta.
Flood
By Ifeanyi Olannye
Aboh(Delta), Dec. 29, 2022 (NAN) The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has approved about N9.7 million for 48 beneficiaries of the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project been impacted by flood in Delta.
The National Coordinator, LIFE-ND, Mr Abiodun Sanni, disclosed this on Thursday at the Disbursement of the IFAD Flood Recovery and Intervention Funds and Inputs Distribution to the Flood Victims at Aboh, Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta.
Sanni said the intervention fund had become necessary to provide succour to the LIFE-ND project beneficiaries who were affected by flood that wreaked havoc on communities where the incubatees beneficiaries) located their businesses.
He noted that the LIFE-ND project was initiated by the Federal Government of Nigeria, with loan from IFAD and Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and being implemented in nine states of the Niger Delta Region.
Sanni, represented by the NDDC Representative in  LIFE-ND, Mrs Stella Manureh, said that the day’s event was unique because it afforded the National Project  Coordinator opportunity to inaugurate the newly completed Cassava Processing Mill in Aboh by Delta LIFE-ND Coordination Office.
According to Sanni, the overall goal of LIFE-ND project is “transformation of the rural economy in which all rural population can derive prosperity and equal benefit.
“It is supported by a strategic Project Development Objective (PDO) which is to enhance income, food security, and jobs creation for rural youths and women through agribusiness development which are enhanced on sustainable basis.
“I will like to express my deep gratitude to IFAD for this kind gesture in sharing solidarity and compassion towards the project and the beneficiaries for all the losses suffered as a result of the devastating effect of the flood.
“And for providing a catalytic and timely support and approving the sum of $600,000 US dollar to the entire affected participating states and the LGAs of the region.
“For Delta state, a total sum of N9.76 million was approved to provide support for 48 beneficiaries across the severely flood affected LGAs; Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, Ethiope East and Ughelli  North LGAs.
“The flood victims are to receive inputs in the form of fertilisers, poultry feeds, fish feeds, cassava stems, day old chicks, juveniles among others and cash  disbursements,” he said.
While urging the beneficiaries to effectively utilise the flood recovery intervention fund, he lauded IFAD for the understanding and timely intervention and thanked the Aboh community for their support.
Sanni also appreciated Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta, for recognising the role of agriculture in the development of the state in terms of contribution to GDP, jobs and food security and his commitment to LIFE-ND project.
On his part, State LIFE-ND Project Coordinator, Mr Collins Ashoro, said 10 LGAs out the 25 LGAs in Delta were participating with 100 communities (10 communities from each LGA) benefiting from the project.
According to Ashoro, the total expected direct beneficiaries (incubatees) of the project is 4,250 with a 50:50 ratio of male to female.
“With this number, Delta state will be contributing to the overall target of 25,000 beneficiaries in the nine Niger Delta Region.
“In response to the devastating effect of the flood and in an effort to provide succour to our affected incubatees (beneficiaries) in Delta, IFAD approved N9.76 million, each beneficiary will receive a sum of N203, 339 which has been lodged into their bank accounts.
“We are here today to witness the flowing; disbursement of fund to LIFE-ND  Project incubatees impacted by flood; distribution of fertilisers, poultry and fish feeds, cassava stems to flood victims.
“Also, distribution of economic trees seedlings; opening of the newly Cassava Processing Mill building; disbursement of working capital to incubatees from Akarai community in fish production.
“And the distribution of Agri-equipment to incubatees already mentored on mobile cassava griding and palm kernel cracking.
Ashoro said that the cassava mill was built for the people of Aboh, adding that it would be equipped with state of the art processing equipment to enhance production of starch, garri and other products to boost the local economy.
According to him, the LIFE-ND project  has graduated 320 incubatees in the first two batches since implementation in 2020 in the priority commodities and along the value chain of cassava, palm oil, fishery and poultry in Delta.
“This third batch totalling 900 incubatees (beneficiaries) dully selected across the participating communities in the state, over 80 per cent have completed their mentorship and are being set up.
“Today, we are  also using this occasion to distribute agricultural input and equipment to 45 youths who are not flood victims but are benefiting from the project agribusiness support.
“They constitute the last batch of the 650 beneficiaries earlier empowered this month.”
While thanking the FGN/IFAD, the state government for the support to actualise the project, Ashoro tasks the beneficiaries on the need to judiciously utilise the items and equipment.
In their remarks, Chief Amechi Chime, Secretary, Aboh Community Development; Youths President, Mr Ozomena Ajeh and  Mr Chuks Dibiagwu indigenes of Aboh, lauded the project and appreciated the impact on the community and boost on it’s economy in terms of jobs creation, food and wealth creation.
On the part of the Incubatees impacted by flood, Mr Kingsley kpekpe and Miss Idu Ossai, said  the intervention fund would enable them recover fast from the impact of the flood which almost left them empty. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
IO/ACA/IAA
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Edited by Chidinma Agu/Isaac Aregbesola
Entertainment

Delta community honours 2 daughters, tasks others on philanthropy

 

Delta community honours 2 daughters, tasks others on philanthropy
Dr Magdalene Nwaka Agada and Dr Josephine Nneka Ewere were honoured with chieftaincy title by the Ibusa community on Saturday for their philanthropy in Ibusa, Delta
Diokpa of Ibusa, Chief Paul Ijeh conferring the title of “Ugohkwesiobodo of Ibuzor” on Dr Magdalene Nwaka Agada, who was represented by Miss Awele Nwaolise on Saturday in Ibusa, Delta
Cross section of Ibusa community women at the occasion to  confer chieftaincy title on Dr Magdalene Nwaka Agada and Dr Josephine Nneka Ewere on Saturday  for their philanthropy in Ibusa, Delta
Philanthropy
By Ifeanyi Olannye
Ibusa, Dec. 24, 2022(NAN) Ibusa community in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta on Saturday rolled out the drums to honour two of her illustrious daughters for living a charitable life and giving support to the community.
The centenarian and oldest man, Diopkpa of Ibusa, Chief Paul Ijeh, who conferred chieftaincy on the duo of Dr Magdalene Agada and her younger sister, Dr Josephine Ewere, at Ibusa, described them as pillars and bundle of blessings to humanity and Ibusa community in particular.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Dr (Mrs) Agada is the founder of Open Hands Amazing Charitable Organisation Incorporated, New York, U.S.A and U.K. a Non- Governmental Organisation (NGO), also  touching lives in Nigeria.
The recipients though were absent but Mrs Agada was represented by Miss Awele Nwaolise while Mrs Ewere was represented by Miss Goodness Nwaolise at the occasion.
The centenarian, who spoke through the Onowu of Ibusa, Chief Chris Okolie, said that with Mrs Agada and Mrs Ewere, the needy in the community sighed a relief as they received hope to live a happy life.
Ijeh conferred on Chief Magdalene Nwaka Agada the title of “Ugohkwesiobodo of Ibuzor” while Mrs Josephine Nneka Ewere was honoured as the “Adaomakwesiliobido of Ibuzor”
He said that the honour would spur them to do more for the community and for humanity while urging other well meaning sons and daughters of Ibusa to emulate them.
According to Ijeh, the the elderly in Ibusa,  get stipends, the sick get medical care and medication, the needy get financial support and the youths get education fund and empowerment to start up their own businesses.
“We have decided to honour them because they have been very helpful to the community.
“They raise fund yearly, send medical team to the community to treat the needy and less  privileged and the sick and also pay stipends to the elderly and other philanthropic gestures they give.
“With this chieftaincy conferred on them, we hope it will spur them to do more on what they have been doing for this community in line with the saying that, “Charity begins at home”.
On his part, Mr Sylvester Okonicha, Son of the Iyase of Ibusa, said the duo of Mrs Agada and Mrs Ewere have remained a blessing to the entire Ibusa community since they traveled abroad.
According to him, they have touched lives and have given immeasurable support both financially and medically to the people of the community.
“They are my aunties and I think they have positively impacted my life such that I want to live and emulate them but I must tell you that God has honoured them.
“What you see us do today is that the community has recognised their contributions to humanity  and it is a thing of joy but my prayers is that God will continue to sustain them for others,” Okonicha said.
Also in her testimony, Mrs Queen Ojiugo, said that like the NGO, Mrs Agada operated an open hand in all her dealings,.and given to charity.
“She cares for all, she is open hand like she said. We have all been touched by her through her NGO. There is no house in Ibusa here that she has not touched.
“She organises a medical outreach, gives alms, trains and empower young men and women to enable them become self employed and successful in life.
” I will like other Ibusa indigenes to emulate Agada and her sister, they are both married to different tribes outside Ibusa but we are not missing them because they have greatly impacted us as if they live here with us.
“They both deserve the title because to whom much is given, much is expected,  the only way this community can reward them for the great support they have given is just to honour them and that is exactly what the community has done today to say thank you to them.
 “This chieftaincy will spur them to do more by way of encouragement that the people recognise their contributions to the community and humanity.
Also, Mr Obidi Nwaolise, said, ” Mrs Agada and her sister have touched the lives of both the rich and the needy in this community and others in Delta, Enugu state, and other  states in Nigeria through her NGO.
“The sick, orphans, those who could not pay their school fees and the unemployed have been touched in this Ibusa and other communities.
“Mrs Agada supported me to secure the job I am doing today to feed my family, she has enlisted some on free education and had organised medical outreach in churches to attend to the sick people.
“Some elderly people and widows in this community are placed on monthly salary by Mrs Agada and Mrs Ewere. We cannot appreciate them enough. Only God will reward them,” he said.
Mr Emmanuel Amatoku, who recited the profile of Mrs Agada, said that the NGO has touched thousands of life in Ibusa, Akumazi and other communities in Delta and also in Egede, Udi, in Enugu state.
“Chief (Mrs) Magdalene Nwaka Agada lives life of philanthropy, she reaches out to those not related to her.
“Recently, she championed cleft pallet surgeries for affected children in Enugu state, and coordinated free eye surgeries for those with eye problems in Enugu, Delta and other states.
“Mrs Agada and her sister are gifts that keep giving and we have come here today to honour them,” Amatoku said.(NAN) (www.nanews.ng)
IO/IAA
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Edited by Isaac Aregbesola
General news

Christmas: Okowa urges prayer for a peaceful nation 

Christmas: Okowa urges Nigerians to pray for peaceful nation

Peace
By Ifeanyi Olannye
Asaba, Dec. 24, 2022(NAN) Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta and Vice-Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has urged Nigerians to pray for the peace of the nation as the elections draw close.
The  governor gave the charge in his Christmas message  through his Chief Press  Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, as Christians across the world celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
Okowa reassured Nigerians and the people of the state that the mission to recover Nigeria was on course and would be realised.
He called on Christians to continue in their prayers for a peaceful nation, especially as the elections were close.
He said that the 2023 polls would usher in a new and positive life for Nigerians.
Okowa reminded citizens that Christmas was a season of love and care for one another as Jesus Christ came with joy and peace to save the world.
He, therefore, urged everyone to use the opportunity of the season to promote peaceful co-existence across the country.
He lauded security agencies for their commitment towards stamping out insecurity in the country and urged them not to lower their guards.
”As the world celebrates Christmas, the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, I call on all Christians; and indeed, all people of Delta and Nigerians, to reflect on the virtues and teachings of Jesus Christ in their lives and activities so that Nigeria and the world will be a better place for all of us.
“While I congratulate all Christians for another Christmas season, I advise all to use the festive period for sober reflections and total spiritual renewal and devotion towards living in peace and harmony with adherents of other religions.
“Let me emphasis that there is hope for the rebuilding of this country as we are about entering the year of transition, and as Christians, we are admonished to pray for the greater good of the nation,’’ Okowa said.
He said that Christmas offered the people the opportunity to reach out to the less-privileged in the society in adherence to the wish and teachings of Christ.
“The period presents opportunity for us to return to God and be steadfast in promoting the virtues of Christ, which are love, peace and harmony in all our endeavours,” the governor said.
He urged Nigerians to unite and pray for peace and co-existence, and eschew bitterness and hatred on the basis of faith, ethnicity or political persuasions.
“I thank our Christian leaders and their counterparts of other faiths in the state and country for conducting themselves peacefully in their religious activities and for joining government in promoting religious and ethnic harmony among Nigerians.
“I urge all religious leaders not to relent in their prayers for the state and country.
“As a state, we have taken measures to ensure that we have a wonderful and very peaceful Christmas celebration across our communities,” he said.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to completing landmark projects and people-oriented policies and programmes, which had direct impact on the lives of the people.
“It is my sincere hope and assurance that the New Year, 2023, will usher in more progress, greater prosperity and enduring fulfillment for all Nigerians.
“As a state and country, we have faced several challenges but because we didn’t give up, we surmounted them and I believe that we can all look forward to 2023 and beyond with greater optimism and hope as my administration works towards finishing strong,” he said.
Okowa wished people and all Nigerians, a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year and prayed for the warmth of God’s love to fill every heart and home in the yuletide.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
IO/IAA
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Edited by Isaac Aregbesola
Politics

PDP condoles with APC over Delta boat mishap

PDP condoles with APC over Delta boat mishap
Condolence
Asaba, Dec. 21, 2022(NAN) The Delta chapter of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday commiserated with All Progressives Congress (APC) over Tuesday’s boat mishap which claimed the lives of some supporters in Okerenkoko.
The condolence was conveyed in a statement by Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza, the state PDP Publicity Secretary and Deputy Director, Media and Publicity of the state Campaign Council in Asaba.
“Delta PDP is shocked and deeply saddened at the reports of a fatal boat mishap on Tuesday at Okerenkoko, Warri South-West Local Government Area, involving supporters of the Delta APC.
“The accident which has claimed the lives of two supporters, with some others, either missing or hospitalised, as a result of serious injuries sustained in the aftermath of the accident.
“We commiserate with the Deputy Senate President and Delta APC governorship candidate, Sen. Ovie Omo-Agege, the entire APC family in the state.
“And most especially the families of those whose lives were lost and those receiving treatment from injuries, sustained during the mishap, which occurred as they returned from the APC rally in Okerenkoko on Tuesday, Dec. 20.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families, even as we pray that the search for the missing persons by the authorities, will yield positive results and they would soon be reunited with their friends, families and loved ones,” Osuoza said.
He added : “Every Delta life matter to us and the loss or misadventure of any Delta citizen, irrespective of political, cultural, and other diverse considerations, is our collective loss.
“We pray the good Lord grant the families of the deceased the fortitude to bear their losses while we are still trusting and believing that God Almighty will cause his light to shine and illuminate the way for the success of the search and rescue.
“Please accept our deep, sincere, and profound condolences.”(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
IO/ABI
Edited by Ali Baba-Inuwa
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08036795981

 

 

Agriculture

FG/IFAD LIFE-ND disburses N819.4M, empowers 1,220 youths, women in agribusiness in Delta

FG/IFAD LIFE-ND disburses N819.4m, empowers 1,220 youths, women in agribusiness in Delta
Mr Collins Ashoro, Delta LIFE-ND Project Coordinator, during a Media Roundtable on LIFE-ND Project Achievement in the state
Agribusiness
By Ifeanyi Olannye
Asaba, Dec. 21, 2022(NAN) The Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) has disbursed the sum of 2.1 million dollars (N819.4 million) and empowered 1,220 youths and women in agribusiness in Delta since inception.
The State Project Coordinator, Mr Collins Ashoro, disclosed this on Wednesday in Asaba, at a Media Roundtable on LIFE-ND Project Achievement in Delta since inception.
Ashoro explained that the project was co-sponsored by  the Federal Government, International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the participating State Government with the major objective to ensure food security, fight poverty, create jobs in the Niger Delta religion.
He said that the project which had six years life cycle, began in 2019 and would end in 2025 in the first phase, adding that it had the projection to run for a second phase from 2025 to 2031.
Ashoro disclosed that Delta government had paid the mandatory counterpart cash contribution of N49 million for year 2020 which had facilitated project implementation in 58 incubation centres in 52 communities in 10 local government areas.
He added that a memo for the request for the 2022 counterpart fund payment had been sent to Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa for his approval to enable the project drawn down fund to pursue another engagement.
He said that the 10 selected local government areas to participate in LIFE-ND Project in Delta were Bomadi, Burutu, Ethiope East, Ika North East, Ika South, Ndokwa West, Ndokwa East, Okpe,  Sapele and Ughelli North.
He added that in  each local government areas LIFE-ND  implemented project activities in 10 communities.
According to Ashoro, the sum of N819.4 million was disbursed based on the following categories; N102.1 million for  civil works; N18.8 million for equipment and materials; N248.8 million was for consultation(training and workshops), while N89.9 million was for operating cost and N359.9 million for grants and subsidies.
“From our last round table discussion in 2021, we had 320 incubatees and 58 incubator, but now we have 98 incubators and new 900 incubatees making it 1,220 incubatees so far
“Delta State LIFE-ND Project has recorded a total of 1,220 (28.7 per cent) beneficiaries (incubatees) since Inception against 4,250 for the Project’s life cycle.
“These beneficiaries are categorized into producers, processors and service enterprises in line with the value chain.
“The state has a total of 790 producers, 220 processors and 210 service enterprises.
“Similarly, the beneficiary gender disaggregation has 521 male youth, 601 female youth, 92 Female Household  and six Persons With Usability ( PWD) which purposively targeted 5 per cent.”
Ashoro said that the project was ready to recruit a new set of incubatees targeting the state projections to empower a total number of 4,250  youths and women before 2025 under the LIFE-ND project in the state.
“Resulting from the support given to incubatees in Delta, over 397 individual enterprises established by project beneficiaries in the state are at various stages of development.
“These enterprises were established in the areas of Cassava production and processing, Oil Palm processing, Fish and Poultry production (Broiler) and homestead vegetable gardens.
“On cassava production, 70 hectares  of land has been cultivated with TME-419 cassava variety by 30 beneficiaries, in Ossissa, Urhuoka and Urhuagbesa communities in Ndokwa East and Ethiope East LGAs respectively for the first cycle of production,” he said.
According to him over N379 million  has been disbursed as stipends, seed capital, working capital and service charge to Incubators and Incubatees and still ongoing.
” No fewer than 40,000 day old chicks had been distributed to 80 incubatees across 16 poultry Incubation centers.
“Also, 8, 000 bags of poultry feeds (starters and finishers) were distributed to 80 incubatees across 16 Incubation centers.
” While, 255,000 Juvenile catfish .and 8,500 bags of fish feeds had been distributed to 170 incubatees across 28 Fishery incubation centers.
“And, no fewer than 900 Incubatees have been set up in the second batch in their chosen Enterprises with the required resources to commence their entrepreneurial journey using the LIFE-ND Project Agribusiness Incubation Model,” he said.
He said that the project had  mainstreaming areas which includes Nutrition, Environmental and Climate Change as well as Financial Inclusion.
According to Ashoro, sensitization and awareness creation on nutrition and climate change as it affects agriculture had been carried out across 57 Incubation centers
“Training on nutrition had been conducted for Project Officers as well as selected Incubators on Nutrition Sensitive Agriculture which was organized by USAID in collaboration with LIFE-ND Project in the period under review,” Ashoro said. (NAN) (www.nannewa.ng).
IO/IAA
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Edited by Isaac Aregbesola
Health

Brain Drain: Okowa orders replacement of medical officers on flight abroad 

 

Replacement
By Ifeanyi Olannye
Asaba, Dec. 14, 2022(NAN) Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta has given  approval to fill all the vacancies created by medical officers who resigned to seek greener pasture abroad.
The governor, stated this while  addressing opening session of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting and Leadership Retreat on Wednesday in Asaba.
Okowa, however, said that improvement on emolument and working environment would reverse the preponderance of brain-drain of medical personnel from the country.
He expressed optimism that resolutions from the NEC meeting, with the theme “Doctors and Effective Leadership in the Health Sector” would also proffer more solutions to resolving the issue and others plaguing the medical profession and healthcare delivery.
According to Okowa, it is painful that people are leaving the country due to poor conditions.
“We cannot stop them, but the vacancies created by such exits should be filled.
“I have given the approval that they should be replaced so that we don’t over-labour those left behind.
“I have long given approval to the Commissioner for Health that all doctors and medical professionals who exited the services of the state should be replaced immediately.
“No doubt, the economic fortunes of a nation are closely intertwined with the status of the health of its people.
“But, to remain economically buoyant as a nation, we have to ensure that our health sector is not plagued with daunting challenges,” he said.
He added, “although we have achieved some milestones in health as a nation, the healthcare system of our country is beset with the current problem of brain-drain.
“It is worrisome that our medical doctors who are expected to provide care for those who are ill among us, are leaving the shores of our country in droves.
“I feel this is a very key issue facing us as a nation and we should look into ways of stemming this ugly tide as we will continue to lose our medical professionals to other countries abroad if urgent measures are not adopted.
“It is a national challenge, which demands the collective attention of all, and among other reasons, is especially the desire to earn more money.
”There are also some complaints about the working environment and inadequate equipment,” he said.
Okowa, who is also the Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said that his administration had built new hospitals and provided modern hospital equipment to meet with current realities.
“In Delta State, we have tried to tackle some of these challenges by carrying out extensive renovations of most of our health facilities in all the three tiers of government
across the state.
“In addition, we have largely replaced old, worn-out and obsolete medical equipment with new ones in virtually all the health facilities in the state.
“We have also built new hospitals; an example is Asaba Specialist Hospital, which is providing tertiary-level services in the State, including the Delta State University Teaching Hospital at Oghara.
“Others include the Advanced Diagnostics Medical Centre and Mother and Child Centre in Owa-Alero.
“Their medical equipment are state-of-the-art and these facilities will also serve as referral centres providing tertiary-level health services in the State and indeed, the entire country.
“They have been provided with all necessary amenities, including a very conducive environment and attractive working conditions for staff.
“I am proud to add that Delta State is one of the very few in the Federation to domesticate the Medical Residency Training Act of 2017 in all our health institutions where residency training is being done,” he said.
On his part, President, World Medical Association (NMA), Dr Osahon Enabulele, also called for improved emolument and conducive environment to stem the tide of medical brain drain.
He said that there was a need to have effective leadership that would address the myriad of issues confronting the health sector in the country.
Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire, recalled the role of the NMA in the past and urged them to wake up and contribute their best to rebuild the nation’s health sector.
Also, the President, NMA, Dr Uche Ojinmah, thanked the Federal Government, Delta and other state governments for paying the new hazard allowance, adding that the Delta blazed the trail in paying the new allowance and many others.
Ojinmah called on other state governments in the country that were yet to commence payment of the allowance to do so to maintain industrial harmony in their health care sectors.
Earlier, the Chairman of NMA in Delta, Dr Carter Okolakpa, thanked Gov. Okowa  for the immense support his administration had offered the association.
He appealed to the governor to declare an emergency on the replacement of medical doctors and other healthcare workers who had left the service of the state.
In his remarks, the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Chike Edozien, who was represented by Chief Chris Chukwurah, called for a strong leadership in the country that would address the challenges be-devilling all sectors of the nation.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
IO/MNA
Edited by Maureen Atuonwu
General news

13% derivation, part of Delta budget –Commissioner

13% derivation, part of Delta budget –Commissioner

Derivation
By Ifeanyi Olannye
Asaba, Dec. 13, 2022(NAN) Delta Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, says the state’s 13 per cent oil derivation fund remains an integral part of its budget.
Aniagwu stated this while fielding questions at a news conference on Tuesday in Asaba.
He said that it was not wrong for the Federal Government to ask for accountability but that particular states should not singled out on the account of 13 per cent derivation.
According to Aniagwu, the state government is transparent in all its financial management as it deploys its funds into projects execution, salaries and human capital developments.
“Today, everybody talk about 13 per cent derivation as if it is not backed up by law and as if other states are not given funds by way of federal allocation.
“There is nothing wrong in asking for accountability, but the idea of singling out Niger Delta states as if they are the only states that funds are allocated to in this country is not acceptable.
“We must ask the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory and the Federal Government to always explain what they use their resources to do.”
He said that Nigerians had a right to demand accountability and probity from public officers.
“In Delta, we have continued to explain what we have been doing with our resources.
“The Koka Flyover and interchange is about to be completed,  Ughelli-Asaba Expressway is being constructed, the human capital development through different platforms that over 17,000 persons have benefited, all these are not voodoo economy.
“In Delta, we do not owe workers salary for one day, it is not voodoo economy, but real money.
“The 13 per cent is what we derive from our state, it is not a dash, it is part of our resources and not a windfall.
“When we prepare our budget, we take cognisance of 13 per cent derivation and when presenting our budget, the derivation is represented as source of revenue, ” Aniagwu said.
He added, “the 13 per cent derivation is given due to the peculiar nature of our region.
“Some of you do know that to construct roads particularly in our coastal communities, one kilometer is costlier than as much as four kilometers in the upland.”
He noted that the Niger Delta region  terrain was peculiar and difficult to develop in terms of roads, drainage and bridge construction when compared to other regions in the country.
“So, enough of this blackmail about 13 per cent as if somebody has given us free money and that they want us to come and account for the free money.
” That money is budgeted for, it is a legitimate earnings  of the Niger Delta States and constitutionally guaranteed.
“If anybody must seek accountability, let them  ask all the states what they do with their resources and not to single out 13 per cent,” Aniagwu said.
Aniagwu who doubles as the Spokesman for Atiku Abubakar Campaign Organisation, said his principal, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has the blue print to lead the country to recovery if given the mandate in 2023.
About, Chatham House, Aniagwu said, “we do not have any problems with people going to Chatham House.
“Chatham House is a wonderful institution, we recognise that, they have played a great role in terms of the political development of our country.
“If we are invited to Chatham House and we have the time, we will go to be able to also speak to the international community.
“We are sure of the capacity of our candidates; Atiku or Ifeanyi  Okowa his running mate.”
On the recently concluded 21st National Sports Festival (NSF) in Asaba, the commissioner conveyed the state government’s appreciation to  the journalists for articulate reportage while the event lasted. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng).
IO/IAA
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Edited by Isaac Aregbesola