Rivers

Amaechi Hails NGO’s Programme For Babies

Published

12 years ago

May 2, 2014

A mother and child health
programme tagged, “Helping Babies Breathe” by a non-governmental health body known as Physicians for Peace has been commended by the Rivers State Governor, Chibuike Amaechi, for reaching out to the needs of rural people.
The governor, through his wife, Dame Judith Amaechi, gave kudos to the group, which comprised of medical doctors and paediatricians from United States at Elele in Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state during a programme last weekend.
Amaechi, after a tour of facilities by the group at the new Amaechi Centre for Empowerment Pavilion, Elele Town, described the initiative as a noble venture that will aid in improving the health of the rural populace.
He described the free medical care as a humanitarian service worthy of emulation, adding that it will help the local people to take charge of their environment and health.
Considering the benefits, the governor urged residents of Ikwerre Local Government Area and Rivers State to ensure they participate and get free medical screening and treatment to improve their living standards.
Amaechi challenged philanthropists and other organisations to evolve programmes that will touch the rural people.
Leader of the team and Special Adviser to the Governor on Environmental Health, Dr Ogu Emejuru, stated that the Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi Centre for Empowerment Pavilion was built in Elele when the governor was Speaker of the State House of Assembly.
Dr Emejuru recalled that in the past, community health care programmes and other initiatives such as the ICT had been used to improve the well-being of the people, especially aged people and children.
He, therefore, expressed confidence that the free medical screening and “Helping Babies Breathe” programme will assist in boosting primary health care policy of the Amaechi administration.
Similarly, a Medical Officer in charge of’ “Helping Babies Breathe” programme, Mrs Joy Obomanu, lauded the initiative, as she stressed that it will help reduce mortality rate and add value to nursing mothers.
The same view was expressed by a paediatrician, Dr. Chimuanya Dimkpa, who noted that such scheme was a key to grassroots health.
Coordinator of the State Free Medical Health Care Programme, Dr I. K. Nherem, expressed optimism that it will impact on the lives of rural populace.
Some of the beneficiaries of the programme expressed joy over the scheme, and thanked Governor Amaechi, his wife and the team of doctors for their selfless service and zeal to improve on the health of the poor.

Rivers

Fubara Restates Continued Support For NYSC In Rivers

Published

3 days ago

January 28, 2026

The Tide

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme in the state.

He gave the assurance during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 Batch A Stream I corps members on Friday at the Permanent Orientation Camp, Nonwa-Gbam, Tai Local Government Area of the state.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Benibo Anabraba, the Governor emphasised that no nation could develop or attain greatness without harnessing the potential of its youths, who are the leaders of tomorrow.

He assured the corps members that the ongoing renovation and upgrade of facilities at the camp would soon be completed.

The State Governor also stated that new infrastructure would be constructed to accommodate the increasing number of corps members deployed to the state.

The NYSC State Coordinator, Mr. Moses Oleghe, thanked the Governor for constructing a 1,000-capacity hostel accommodation for both male and female corps members at the camp.

Oleghe announced that a total of 2,638 corps members, comprising 1,007 males and 1,631 females, had completed their registration, while more than 300 corps members were yet to register.

The oath of office was administered by the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Chibuzor Amadi, who was represented by another judge, Justice Chika Mini.

Theresa Frederick & Charity Amiso

Rivers

Health Comm Charges Youth To Take Advantage Of Innovation Hub

Published

3 days ago

January 28, 2026

The Tide

The Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh, has called on adolescents and young people in the state to take full advantage of the newly established Adolescents and Young People Innovation Hub Centre, urging them to prioritize the acquisition of entrepreneurial and life skills that will empower them economically and support informed life choices.

Dr. Oreh made the call while commissioning the Innovation Hub Centre located at Fimie-Ama Community in Port Harcourt Local Government Area (PHALGA).

She disclosed that the Hub, which features ICT and robotics rooms, app development and media studios, beauty and vocational training spaces, wellness and counselling services, and a food technology unit, reflects a deep understanding of the diverse needs of adolescents and young people in society.

While applauding the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), in partnership with Project HOPE, for initiating the laudable programme, the Commissioner noted that the Rivers State Government recognizes youth empowerment through skills acquisition, confidence building, and access to opportunities as a cornerstone of sustainable development, social stability, and economic growth.

She further assured of the continuous support of the Rivers State Government in creating an enabling environment for programmes that empower young people, promote innovation, reduce vulnerability, and contribute to overall socio-economic transformation.

Speaking earlier, the Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director of the Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria, Dr. Charles Olalekan Mensah, said the establishment of the Innovation Hub Centre is aimed at empowering young people with relevant skills and providing opportunities for long-term growth.

He added that the successful realization of the Hub is the result of strong leadership, strategic partnerships, and sustained collaboration among stakeholders.

In her goodwill message, the Country Director of the CDC, Nigeria, Dr. Meghna Desai, represented virtually by the Deputy Director, Programmes, Dr. Jerry Gwamna, described the Hub as a safe space for the holistic development of adolescents and young people.

She noted that the initiative will equip beneficiaries with critical entrepreneurial, technical, and life skills that reduce vulnerability and promote economic independence, including for young people living with HIV/AIDS.

Rivers

Andoni Chair Assures Safety After Cult-Related Attacks In Oyokotoro

Published

3 days ago

January 28, 2026

The Tide

The Chairman of Andoni Local Government Area (LGA), Hon. Lucky Promise-Otuo, has assured residents of Oyokotoro fishing settlement of their safety following recent cult-related attacks and threats to peace in the area.

In a statement he personally signed, Hon. Promise-Otuo disclosed that proactive measures have been put in place to prevent a breakdown of law and order. These include the deployment of security personnel to Oyokotoro and surrounding communities.

The Council Chairman stated that his administration is working closely with the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to address the situation and prevent future occurrences.

He strongly condemned the attacks, describing them as unacceptable and a serious threat to the peace, safety, and the livelihoods of residents.

Hon. Promise-Otuo warned those responsible for the attacks to desist immediately, stressing that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across the LGA, assuring residents, visitors, and business operators of their safety.