SWDC and FTID Collaborate for Rural Development in S'West

The South West Development Commission (SWDC) has announced a partnership with FTID to boost rural development in South West Nigeria. The project, which was discussed in a statement on Tuesday, aims to enhance food production and improve essential infrastructure in rural communities.

It will focus on supporting small-scale agro-processing enterprises and developing skills, particularly among youth. Prof.

Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, the Executive Director of FTID, and Fatai Ibikunle, the Executive Director of Commercial and Environmental Development at SWDC, emphasized the need for infrastructural improvements to bridge the gap between urban centers and rural communities. The initiative is expected to begin with pilot programs across six states, aligning resources for effective implementation.

Dr. Charl Akinola, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SWDC, highlighted that this project is part of the commission's flagship initiatives aimed at transforming agriculture and boosting food security in line with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope agenda.