In a recent announcement by Rivers State Governor, Siminalaye Fubara, the revival of the long-abandoned Songhai Farm has garnered significant attention and enthusiasm from various quarters. Following the governor’s declaration, a member of the Labour Party, Favour Reuben, has called for a strategic relocation of the Ministry of Agriculture closer to the farm’s vicinity to enhance productivity.
Favour Reuben, in an exclusive interview with our reporters, emphasized the potential of Rivers State to emerge as a major food producer and even expand into the realm of exports. He stressed the importance of establishing the necessary machinery and infrastructure to support this vision. Reuben further proposed that the Ministry of Agriculture should transition from its current office-centric approach to a more field-oriented one, with the construction of suitable facilities near the farm. He underscored the need for practical work rather than bureaucratic paperwork, emphasizing the importance of productivity within the ministry.
Commending Governor Siminalaye Fubara’s recent visit to the Songhai Farm, Favour Reuben viewed it as a positive step toward strengthening food security in Rivers State and envisioned the state as a potential food basket for Africa.
Offering his expert insights on the matter, agricultural consultant Charles Okoro expressed optimism about the governor’s agricultural intentions, provided they are executed with sincerity. Okoro highlighted the economic potential of Songhai Farm, estimating that it could yield up to 1.5 billion naira for the Rivers State Government. He emphasized the need for tangible action in the revival process, asserting that such an initiative could significantly impact the local community and earn praise for the governor’s administration.
Furthermore, Mr. Okoro advised Governor Fubara on the selection of stakeholders critical to the farm’s revitalization. He emphasized the pivotal role of small-scale farmers, who contribute substantially to agricultural production and food security in the state. Okoro also stressed the importance of identifying reliable off-takers to ensure effective marketing and distribution of agricultural products. Lastly, he encouraged collaboration with stakeholders who possess expertise in agriculture, as their knowledge, skills, and experience could further enhance the farm’s prospects.
The governor’s commitment to revitalizing Songhai Farm has ignited hope for a more robust agricultural sector in Rivers State, potentially elevating the region’s status as a major contributor to food production in Nigeria.
