The fourth quarter and end-of-year meeting of the Rivers State Chapter of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN) was held on Thursday, 11th December 2025, at the Department of Food Science, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt. The meeting commenced at 12:00 noon with an opening worship session, including songs and prayers.
In her opening remarks, the Chapter Chairman, Dr. Catherine Orisa, RDN, expressed profound gratitude to God for the grace and enablement to successfully host the Port Harcourt 2025 NSN Conference. She commended members for their unwavering commitment, support, and financial contributions toward the success of the conference. The Chairman emphasized the importance of teamwork, dedication, and collective zeal in advancing the chapter to greater heights.
This was followed by the reading and adoption of the minutes of the previous meeting, presented by the Chapter Secretary, Evang. Buduzhi Gift Oguzor, RDN, FCAI. The minutes were duly adopted, and matters arising were discussed.
The major agenda of the meeting was the appraisal of the 2025 NSN Conference hosted by the Rivers State Chapter. The Chairman reflected on the challenges encountered in organizing the conference, including the prevailing emergency rule and difficulties in securing sponsorship. Despite these challenges, she highlighted the support received from the Rivers State Government, including approval to use the Dr. Obi Wali International Conference Centre, financial support from the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board, and logistics support from the State Ministry of Health.
She also appreciated the presence and support of distinguished guests and dignitaries, including His Royal Highness, the Emir of Kano, Dr. Adaeze Oreh as Chairman of the Occasion, and other royal fathers. The Chairman noted that strong team spirit and collaboration among members significantly reduced operational challenges. She further acknowledged the efforts of the Executive Committee for hosting a memorable dinner, which was widely admired by conference participants.
Members applauded the report and expressed satisfaction with the achievements recorded. This was further reinforced by the Secretary’s presentation, which highlighted the harmony and effective collaboration among the various committees.
The meeting also discussed an invitation from the Rivers State Government for NSN to participate in the 2025 World Universal Health Coverage Day activities. Members were encouraged to actively participate in the rally and other planned programmes.
Plans for 2026 were deliberated upon, including a proposed New Year Thanksgiving Service scheduled for the last Sunday in January 2026, with the venue to be communicated later. The chapter’s work plan for the year was also reviewed and approved.
As part of the closing activities, two new members were formally welcomed into the chapter. In her closing remarks, the Chairman invited suggestions for collaborations with individuals and organizations ahead of World Food Day 2026, noting that the 2025 celebration could not be held due to financial constraints following the hosting of the national conference.
The meeting concluded with refreshments served in appreciation of members’ participation.
