The Rivers State Government (RSG) has deepened its engagement with professionals in the floral industry as part of efforts to promote urban greening and sustainable environmental practices across the state capital.
In a statement published on its website on Wednesday, the government said the initiative forms part of a broader plan to reposition Port Harcourt as a cleaner, greener and more visually appealing city.
Speaking during a meeting with key players in the floral sector at his office, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Amairigha Edward Hart, highlighted the need for deliberate and forward-looking planning to support urban greening and its environmental benefits.
He encouraged florists to bring their knowledge and skills to the table, noting that their contribution would be essential to achieving the ministry’s development targets.
According to him, both the ministry and the state would depend heavily on professional expertise to deliver on their goals.
Hart reassured stakeholders that the planned reforms would not push florists out of business but would instead organise their activities to improve efficiency and public access.
News: Rivers Improves PHC Laboratory Services Through Specialize Training
He introduced the idea of grouping florists within designated locations, including a proposed “flower island”, where residents could easily purchase floral products.
The commissioner, however, expressed disappointment at the low turnout of invited participants at the meeting.
He urged stakeholders to be more involved in future engagements, warning that resistance to the government’s urban renewal plans could attract enforcement measures, including relocation.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Soibi Harry, outlined new policy directions introduced by Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
She explained that the policies are designed to strengthen environmental standards, support urban renewal efforts and address activities that obstruct traffic or degrade public spaces.
Responding on behalf of industry players, the Chief Executive Officer of Le Campaigne Exotica Co. Ltd, Caroline Nagbo, raised concerns about the declining condition of Port Harcourt, once celebrated as the “Garden City.”
She pointed to growing environmental challenges and poor urban organisation, noting that many streets had been overtaken by informal trading, while public areas such as Jubilee Parks had fallen into disrepair and were increasingly linked to criminal activity.
Nagbo called on the government to create clearly defined green zones and remove unauthorised occupants from such areas.
She also assured the state of the sector’s readiness to support its vision, emphasising their experience in using both local and exotic plant species to enhance urban landscapes.
