Rivers State Administrator Pledges to Revive Songhai Farms, Boost Agriculture and Infrastructure

The Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ekwe Ibas, has announced strategic measures to revitalize the state-owned Songhai Integrated Farms in Bunu Tai Community, Tai Local Government Area. The initiative aims to enhance food production, promote self-sufficiency, and create sustainable employment opportunities for the youth of Rivers State. The commitment was made during an inspection tour of the farm’s facilities on Saturday, underscoring the administration’s focus on agricultural and infrastructural development.

Accompanied by the farm’s coordinator, Dr. Tammy Jaja, and the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Morrison Ogolo, Retired Vice Admiral Ibas conducted a comprehensive assessment of the Songhai Integrated Farms. The tour also included visits to other critical agricultural facilities, such as 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.

A Vision for Agricultural Self-Sufficiency

During the inspection, the Administrator received detailed briefings from ministry officials on the current state of the facilities. He emphasized the importance of firsthand evaluations to determine the interventions needed to restore and optimize these projects. “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,” Ibas stated.

Retired Vice Admiral Ibas highlighted the pivotal role of sustainable agricultural development in achieving food security and reducing Rivers State’s dependence on imported food. He stressed that revitalizing local farming and enhancing production capabilities are essential to making agriculture an attractive and viable career path for young people. “The three facilities we inspected today are vital links in the agricultural value chain. To achieve self-sufficiency in food production, we must enhance food security, empower local farmers, and promote domestic food output,” he explained.

The Administrator noted that fully operationalizing these facilities would not only create employment opportunities for Rivers youths but also contribute significantly to Nigeria’s national economy. By strengthening the agricultural sector, the state aims to position itself as a hub for food production and innovation.

Community Cooperation to Safeguard Public Assets

During his visit to Bunu Tai, Retired Vice Admiral Ibas engaged with community leaders, youth, and women, urging them to take an active role in protecting government facilities in their areas. He warned that vandalism and destruction of public infrastructure undermine development efforts and harm the very communities these projects are designed to serve.

“I urge you to collaborate with security agencies, such as the police and the Nigerian Civil Defence Corps, to safeguard these assets. Damaging government property ultimately harms the community. We will work to restore these facilities for your benefit,” he assured the residents. The Administrator’s call for community cooperation reflects his administration’s commitment to fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the success of public projects.

Infrastructure Development: Road Rehabilitation in Focus

In addition to his focus on agriculture, Retired Vice Admiral Ibas assessed the ongoing reconstruction of internal roads on P-Mac Avenue in Rumuodara, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area. He was joined by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, Engr. Atemea Briggs, for the inspection. Expressing satisfaction with the progress made, the Administrator reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the project’s timely completion.

The contractor overseeing the road rehabilitation has pledged to deliver the project within the next two months, a promise that Ibas expects to be fulfilled. “Significant progress has been made, and we are determined to see this project completed to improve living conditions for residents,” he said. The road reconstruction is part of broader efforts to enhance infrastructure and improve the quality of life for Rivers State residents.

A Broader Vision for Economic Growth

The initiatives spearheaded by Retired Vice Admiral Ibas reflect the Rivers State Government’s determination to revitalize critical sectors, including agriculture and infrastructure, to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods. By prioritizing the restoration of projects like Songhai Integrated Farms and supporting local farmers, the administration aims to create a sustainable framework for food security and job creation. Similarly, investments in infrastructure, such as the P-Mac Avenue road rehabilitation, demonstrate a commitment to addressing the needs of communities across the state.

The Administrator’s hands-on approach, evidenced by his inspection tours and engagement with stakeholders, signals a proactive strategy to deliver tangible results for the people of Rivers State. As these projects progress, they are expected to generate significant economic and social benefits, positioning Rivers State as a leader in agricultural innovation and infrastructural development.

Conclusion

Retired Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ekwe Ibas’s pledge to revive Songhai Integrated Farms and advance other agricultural and infrastructural projects marks a significant step toward economic transformation in Rivers State. By fostering self-sufficiency in food production, creating employment opportunities, and improving infrastructure, the administration is laying the foundation for a prosperous and sustainable future. The call for community cooperation further underscores the collaborative effort required to safeguard and maximize the impact of these initiatives.

As Rivers State moves forward under Ibas’s leadership, the successful implementation of these projects will serve as a testament to the power of strategic planning, community engagement, and a shared vision for progress.