The Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, says the days of neglect are over for the state-owned Songhai Integrated Farms and key healthcare facilities across Rivers State.
Vice Admiral Ibas made the pledge during a project inspection tour of Tai and Obio-Akpor Local Government Areas on Saturday. His visit covered the dilapidated Songhai Farms, the Model Primary Healthcare Centre, the abandoned Primary School One in Bunu-Tai, the Mother and Child Hospital along the Port Harcourt–Aba Expressway, and the Dr. Peter Odili Cancer and Cardiovascular Diagnostic Centre in Rumuokwuta.
Describing the condition of the sites as a “loss to the economy and food security,” Vice Admiral Ibas vowed to pursue collaborative strategies to revamp the Songhai Farms into a hub for sustainable agriculture and job creation.
“The Songhai Farms, if fully operational, could transform livelihoods. But its current state is a missed opportunity,” he stated.
Following the initial site clearance, the Administrator emphasized the need for quick stakeholder engagement and investment.
“Now that we have a full picture of the facility, we must act swiftly. Investor confidence relies on transparency and commitment,” he said.
He also called on host communities to support the reactivation efforts.
“This is not just a government project—it belongs to all of us. Our children’s future depends on what we do today.”
On healthcare, the Administrator said the government will tackle underutilization of medical centres through staffing, facility upgrades, and strategic partnerships.
“These centres were built to serve our people. We’ll take decisive steps to make them functional again,” he added.
Vice Admiral Ibas said stakeholder meetings will be convened soon to advance the Songhai Farms revival, with private sector input being key to success.
“The time for action is now. Together, we’ll restore these assets as engines of growth for Rivers State,” he declared.
The statement was signed by Mr. Hector Igbikiowubo, Senior Special Adviser on Media to the Rivers State Government.
