The Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has pledged to implement strategic interventions to restore the Songhai Integrated Farms to full functionality, as part of efforts to drive food production and create job opportunities for youths across the state.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the farm’s facilities at Bunu/Ban-Ogoi in Tai Local Government Area on Saturday, Ibas said the project holds the potential to significantly impact the state’s agricultural sector and overall economy. He was accompanied by the Farm Coordinator, Dr. Tammy Jaja, and the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Morrison Ogolo.
The Administrator’s tour also included visits to the TechFarms Slaughter House in Mgbuosimini and the Rivers State Veterinary Hospital and Diagnostics Laboratory in Rumuodomaya, both located in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
Addressing reporters after the tour, Ibas underscored the importance of direct oversight in evaluating the state of public projects and identifying areas requiring urgent attention.
“These initiatives are well-conceived, and significant resources have already been invested in them. Since they are meant to benefit the people, it is only right that I inspect them to evaluate their current state and decide on the next steps,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of sustainable food systems, Ibas emphasized the need for strategic agricultural development in Rivers State to reduce reliance on imported food and build local capacity.
“The three facilities we inspected today are vital links in the agricultural value chain. To achieve self-sufficiency, we must enhance food security, empower local farmers, and boost domestic food production,” he stated.
“If fully operational, these projects will not only generate employment for our youth but also contribute significantly to the state and national economies.”
During the visit, Ibas also met with community leaders, youths, and women’s groups, urging them to support the government’s development initiatives by safeguarding public infrastructure in their communities.
“Damaging government property ultimately harms the community. I urge you to work with the police and the Nigerian Civil Defence Corps to protect these facilities. We will do our part to restore them for your benefit,” he appealed.
As part of his statewide assessment, the Administrator also inspected the ongoing rehabilitation of internal roads on P-Mac Avenue, Rumuodara, in Obio/Akpor LGA. He was joined by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, Engr. Atemea Briggs.
Commending the contractor on the pace of work, Ibas expressed optimism that the road project would be completed within two months as promised.
“Significant progress has been made, and we are determined to see this project completed to improve living conditions for residents,” he said.
