Rivers State today joined the global community to mark the 2025 edition of World Food Day under the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.” The theme emphasizes cooperation, solidarity, and shared purpose in redesigning food systems, ensuring access to healthy diets, and building a sustainable and food-secure world.
The Rivers State Government said the theme aligns strongly with its vision to increase food availability, improve nutrition, and promote resilient agriculture that benefits all residents. “Food is more than sustenance — it is the foundation of health, dignity, economic growth, and social stability,” the government stated.
Officials noted that this year’s World Food Day serves as a reminder that food is not only a basic necessity but also a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of peace, stability, and development. The state reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring food security, promoting sustainable agriculture, and contributing to the global efforts to end hunger in all its forms.
Under the leadership of His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, Governor of Rivers State, the Ministry of Agriculture has continued to implement policies and programs designed to boost food production, support farmers, and build a strong agricultural sector capable of meeting the needs of the population.
The Ministry highlighted several strategic initiatives aimed at repositioning agriculture as a driver of economic growth, food security, and job creation. Among these are the School-to-Land Agricultural Training Programme, which will be revitalized to train young people in modern farming techniques and agribusiness. The initiative aims to build a new generation of farmers who can compete globally.
The state also announced the revitalization of the Songhai Integrated Farm, a model agricultural and research center. This facility will serve as a hub for innovation, training, and agro-industrial production, supporting local farmers and strengthening agricultural value chains.
Other key initiatives include the Farm Cluster Development and Input Support Schemes, which will give farmers across the 23 local government areas better access to quality seedlings, fertilizers, and modern equipment. Additionally, the Community-based Livestock and Fisheries Programs are being expanded to diversify agricultural production and ensure food availability throughout the year.
The Ministry noted the successful implementation of the Renewed Hope Initiative Agricultural Empowerment Support Programme, coordinated by the Wife of the President of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON. In Rivers State, the program was implemented by Lady Valerie Fubara, the First Lady of the state, and supported 800 beneficiaries. The Ministry will integrate these beneficiaries into its supervisory and extension programs to monitor their progress and ensure that the distributed inputs and equipment are used effectively to increase productivity and strengthen the food supply chain.
“This collaboration represents a significant step toward achieving the broader objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the Ministry stated. “It aligns with our state’s vision to build an agriculturally sustainable economy that can feed our people, create employment, and generate wealth.”
Governor Fubara has provided strong support and approvals for all agricultural interventions, demonstrating leadership in developing the sector. The Ministry described these programs as practical measures to empower farmers, support agripreneurs, and ensure that agriculture remains a key contributor to the state’s economy.
As the state commemorates World Food Day, the Ministry of Agriculture reaffirmed its commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural practices, strengthening food systems, and supporting local farmers with training and resources. Officials said the state will continue to work closely with development partners and stakeholders to promote the objectives of the World Food Programme and contribute to global efforts to end hunger and poverty.
“In Rivers State, we believe that the future of food security lies in the hands of our farmers, our youths, and our collective determination to sustain the land that sustains us,” the Ministry said. “Together, with the continued support of our Governor, development partners, and all stakeholders, we will build a future where no citizen goes hungry and where agriculture remains a source of pride and prosperity.”