Rivers State Government Reaffirms Strong Commitment to Nutrition Security through Health Systems, Food Sustainability, and Community Engagement — Ibas

Rivers State Government Reaffirms Strong Commitment to Nutrition Security through Health Systems, Food Sustainability, and Community Engagement — Ibas

Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas has reaffirmed his administration’s firm commitment to advancing nutrition security in Rivers State through reinforced healthcare systems, sustainable food production, and active community involvement.

Speaking at the Rivers State Nutrition 774 Town Hall Stakeholders Workshop in Port Harcourt—held under the theme “Strengthening Capacity to Drive Action for Nutrition Delivery”—Ibas,

represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, formally launched the initiative and described it as a strategic, community-driven framework to combat malnutrition across the state.

He emphasized that the initiative integrates government, communities, and development partners under a unified platform, guided by clear priorities, reliable data, sustainable financing, and a shared goal of reaching every household in Rivers State.

Highlighting key investments by his administration, Ibas noted that 10.8 percent of the 2025 state budget has been allocated to the health sector. Additionally, Nutrition Departments and dedicated budget lines have been established across key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

He also cited the revitalization of key health facilities such as the Mother and Child Hospital and the Dr. Peter Odili Cancer and Cardiovascular Diagnosis Centre, aimed at improving the quality of healthcare delivery.

On food sustainability, Ibas referenced ongoing efforts to modernize agriculture through the rehabilitation of the Songhai Integrated Farm and the revitalization of the Rivers Cassava Processing Plant in Oyigbo, both of which are expected to strengthen food value chains across the state.

The Governor concluded by stating that the Rivers State Council on Nutrition would act with urgency, ensuring data-driven coordination, measurable outcomes, and healthier communities statewide.