Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to reviving abandoned agricultural facilities across the state to boost industrial growth and tackle youth unemployment.
The pledge was contained in a press statement issued by the Senior Special Adviser on Media to the Rivers State Government, Hector Igbikiowubo, following the Administrator’s inspection tour of key agricultural assets.
Facilities visited during the tour include PABOD Farm in Elimgbu, Atali Farms in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Siat Nigeria Limited in Ubima (Ikwerre LGA), and the Port Harcourt Technical and Vocational Centre.
Vice Admiral Ibas expressed concern over the neglect of these public assets, attributing their current state to years of mismanagement. He said restoring them was crucial to creating employment opportunities and diversifying the state’s economy.
“We have seen firsthand how richly endowed our state is, yet it is disheartening to observe the neglect of these government investments. These facilities were established for the benefit of our people, and it is our responsibility to protect and optimize them,” the statement quoted him.
He affirmed that the state government has the political will and capacity to bring the facilities back to life.
At Siat Nigeria Limited, the Administrator commended the partnership between the company, host communities, and government, calling it a model for sustainable development.
“Such collaboration ensures that communities take ownership of projects within their domains. We encourage other private sector players to emulate this approach for the collective benefit of our people,” he added.
Vice Admiral Ibas also assured that the Port Harcourt Technical and Vocational Centre would be upgraded to provide technical skills training aligned with current industry demands.
According to the statement, the initiative is part of a broader effort by the Rivers State Government to leverage agriculture and vocational training as engines of economic transformation, job creation, and sustainable development.
Others present during the facility tours included Mr. Maurice Ogolo, Permanent Secretary, Rivers State Ministry of Agriculture, and Dr. Walter Ndu, Sole Administrator of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
