Rivers State administration, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has been inaugurated as the Chairman of the Rivers State Council on Nutrition by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
The inauguration ceremony, held on Monday at the Government House in Port Harcourt, also saw the swearing-in of ten other council members by Mrs. Uju Rochas-Anwukah, Senior Special Assistant on Health in the Presidency, Office of the Vice President.
Speaking, Vice Admiral Ibas said his administration places importance on healthcare, disclosing that 10.8 percent of the state’s 2025 budget has been allocated to the health sector.
He stressed that this financial commitment reflects the government’s resolve to deliver quality, accessible, and sustainable healthcare services to all residents of Rivers State.
“Our commitment is not just financial—it is strategic and action-driven,” the Administrator declared.
“This administration has approved the establishment of dedicated Nutrition Departments and the creation of a nutrition budget line in all relevant ministries. This ensures that nutrition is mainstreamed across sectors and given the financial priority it deserves.”
To further strengthen implementation, Vice Admiral Ibas revealed that he has directed the establishment of dedicated nutrition units in key ministries, ensuring effective alignment with budgetary provisions and program execution.
In a statement by the Special Adviser on Media to Ibas, Hector Igbikiowubo, it was noted that as part of efforts to enhance healthcare delivery, the Rivers State Government entered into public-private partnerships (PPPs) to reactivate critical health facilities, including:
“These partnerships with reputable firms are designed to ensure world-class service delivery, improve access to specialized care, and guarantee long-term sustainability,” he stated.
