The Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral lbok Ete Ekwe lbas, has pledged to implement strategic measures to revive the state-owned Songhai Integrated Farms which would boost food production and create sustainable employment opportunities for Rivers youths.
The Songhai Farm which was built by former Governor Chibuike Amaechi-led government suffered serious neglect throughout the eight years, his successor in office, Nyesom Wike held sway in the State.
The workers there were frustrated and they abandoned the place due to non-payment of their salaries and allowances, thus making the place which used to be a bee-hive of economic activities to turn to bush. Ibas made this commitment during an inspection tour of the farm’s facilities in Bunu -Tai Community, Tai Local Government Area of the State when he visited the area.
The Sole Administrator was accompanied by the farm’s coordinator, Dr. Tammy Jaja, and the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Morrison Ogolo.
The visit also included stops at other key agricultural facilities, such as the Tech Farms Slaughter House in Mgbuosimini and the Rivers State Veterinary Hospital and Diagnostics Laboratory in Rumuodomaya both in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
After receiving briefings from ministry officials, the retired Vice Admiral lbas emphasized the importance of assessing the projects firsthand to determine necessary interventions.
“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 l inspect them to evaluate their current state and decide on the next steps,” he stated.
The administrator highlighted the need for sustainable agricultural development in Rivers State to ensure food security and reduce dependence on imports stressing that supporting local farmers and enhancing production capabilities are crucial steps toward making agriculture more appealing to the youth.
“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 locaI farmers, and promote domestic food output,” he explained.
“If these projects are fully operational, they will generate employment opportunities for our youth and contribute significantly to the national economy.”
During the visit, retired Vice Admiral lbas also engaged with community leaders, youth, and women, urging them to protect government facilities in their areas and warned against vandalism as destroying public infrastructure undermines development efforts.
“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.
Ibas also assessed the ongoing reconstruction of internal roads on P-Mac Avenue in Rumuodara, Obio/Akpor LGA, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, Engr. Atemea Briggs
He expressed satisfaction with the progress so far made and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring timely completion.
The contractor then pledged to deliver the project within the next two months, a promise the administrator 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.
ENDS
