Rivers Administrator Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd) has lamented the abandonment of Songhai Integrated Farms in Rivers State, describing it as a loss to the economy.
Ibas, who said the neglect had impacted negatively on food security, promised to revitalise the facility and make it a hub for sustainable agriculture, job creation, and food security.
The assurance came following an extensive inspection tour of key projects in Tai and Obio-Akpo Local Government Areas on Saturday.
A statement by the Special Adviser on Media, Rivers State Government, Hector Igbikiowubo, said apart from the farms, Ibas inspected the Model Primary Healthcare Centre, the abandoned Primary School One in Bunu Tai, the Mother and Child Hospital on Port Harcourt-Aba Expressway, and the Dr. Peter Odili Cancer and Cardiovascular Diagnostic Centre in Rumuokwuta.
Addressing community leaders, Ibas expressed dismay over the underutilisation of Rivers’ vast agricultural and healthcare potential.
He said: “What we have seen today is not just neglect—it is a loss for our economy, our food security, and our future generations. The Songhai Farms, if fully operational, could transform livelihoods, yet the current state represents a missed opportunity for our people.
“Now that we have a full picture of the facility, we must move swiftly to engage stakeholders and investors. Their confidence depends on our collective commitment to protect their investments and ensure transparency.”
He urged host communities to actively support the reactivation efforts, noting that sustainable progress required local ownership.
“This is not just a government project. It is yours. Your children’s future depends on what we do today,” he said.
Ibas outlined plans to address underutilisation through manpower reinforcement, structural upgrades, and improved management.
“These centers were built to serve our people. We will take decisive steps to optimise them, whether through staffing, refurbishment, or partnerships,” he added.
The administrator confirmed that stakeholders’ meetings would be convened soon to advance the Songhai Farms revival, with a focus on attracting private-sector collaboration.
“The time for action is now. Together, we will restore these assets to their rightful place as engines of growth for Rivers State,” he said.
The PUNCH
