By Helen Okechukwu, JKNewsMedia Reporter
THE RIVERS State government has said that it is working to improve its medical education and agriculture sectors through strategic partnerships.
In a significant move, the government collaborated with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) to enhance the quality of training at its tertiary institutions.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara announced plans to improve facilities and standards for medical students.
He pledged to release outstanding scholarship payments and approved the employment of 2,000 new medical personnel.
This initiative aims to strengthen healthcare delivery in the state, with 1,000 of the new hires being deployed to the state’s Health Management Board and another 1,000 to the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH).
Governor Fubara stressed that the welfare of doctors would be prioritized to ensure better healthcare outcomes.
During the visit of the MDCN accreditation panel, led by Registrar Dr. Fatima Kyari, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to education and health.
The government’s goal is to equip medical professionals with the necessary skills to meet the growing demands of the healthcare sector.
Dr. Kyari assured that the MDCN would continue to work closely with the state to ensure academic and professional excellence in medical education.
In another development, Rivers State is also focusing on boosting agricultural production.
The government has partnered with Vitalcrop Ventures Limited and Imagine Adama Limited to revitalize the Songhai integrated farm in Tai Local Government Area.
The project aims to address food security and create jobs for the state’s youth.
Governor Fubara noted that a consistent food supply could alleviate up to 50 percent of the state’s economic challenges.
At the inauguration of the new task force for the project, Governor Fubara emphasized the need for capable leadership, criticizing the previous task force for its lack of effectiveness.
He expressed confidence in the newly selected team, headed by Biedima Olive, who had initiated the project during his time at the Rivers State Sustainable Development Agency (RSSDA).
Olive pledged to see the initiative through and thanked the governor for his support.
These efforts reflect Rivers State’s commitment to improving key sectors such as health and agriculture, laying a foundation for sustainable growth and development.
