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  • Ibas approves rehabilitation of Rivers secretariat, 106 housing units for workers

    Ibas approves rehabilitation of Rivers secretariat, 106 housing units for workers

    The Rivers State Government has approved the rehabilitation and modernization of the Rivers State Secretariat Complex.

    The state’s Sole Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd) announced this at the 2025 Civil Service Week Gala and Awards Ceremony held at Government House, Port Harcourt.

    The administrator also approved the provision of 106 housing units for civil servants.

    A statement signed by the Senior Special Adviser, Media, Rivers State Government, however, did not disclose the cost implications of the project.

    The statement said the landmark initiative was designed to transform the secretariat into a modern, efficient, and conducive work environment, directly supporting the civil servants who formed the backbone of the state’s governance.

    Ibas paid glowing tribute to retired heads of service and permanent secretaries, describing them as the bedrock of the state’s administration.

    He said that the awards ceremony was a symbol of deep appreciation for decades of sacrifice, resilience, and commitment.

    He said, “These interventions are designed not only to recognize your service, but also to improve your welfare in tangible and lasting ways. We must build an administration that is efficient, effective, and truly citizen-centric.”

    He urged serving officers to draw inspiration from their predecessors and to strive to make a meaningful impact in the lives of citizens.

    Ibas emphasized the importance of embracing innovation, technology, and continuous training to build a civil service equipped for the future.

    Read Also: I’ve saved N5bn for Rivers from staff verification- Ibas

    The Acting Head of Rivers State Civil Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Inyingi Brown, in her welcome address, described the civil service as the “engine room of government” and expressed profound gratitude to the Administrator for his unwavering support and commitment to its modernization.

    She said, “A society that does not honor its heroes is not worthy of emulation,” lauding the retirees as torchbearers of discipline and loyalty.

    She pledged to build on their legacy through reforms and innovation, projecting that the Rivers State Civil Service would become a model of efficiency and transparency by 2030.

    Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Sir Promise Njowhor, President of the Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the historic recognition.

    He said, “For once, since the creation of the state, we are being honored. Our morale has been lifted.”

    He pledged the association’s continuous support for government programs, describing the body of experienced retirees as a resource available to contribute to state development.

    The Highlight of the event was the presentation of the Most Civil Service Friendly Award to the Administrator by the Forum of Permanent Secretaries for his sustained promotion of welfare and development of the State Civil Service.

  • Ibas inaugurates 23 Rivers LG chairmen, sets agenda for grassroots development

    Ibas inaugurates 23 Rivers LG chairmen, sets agenda for grassroots development

    The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), has sworn in the 23 newly elected local government chairmen, charging them to reject self-interest and embrace a new era of transparent, accountable, and reform-driven leadership for the people.

    The inauguration, which took place at the Government House in Port Harcourt, was described as a pivotal milestone in the state’s journey to restore full democratic governance after a period of political turbulence that led to the state of emergency.

    He told the chairmen that public office is a sacred trust, not an avenue for personal gain.

    Ibas said, “This victory is not a prize to be enjoyed. It is a burden to be carried. It is not an entitlement, but a duty. It is not a call to self-interest, but to selfless service”.

    He said that leadership must move beyond the politics of patronage and focus squarely on delivering measurable services that tangibly improve the lives of citizens at the grassroots.

    The administrator recalled that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, following a catastrophic breakdown of law and order and the collapse of governance at the local level.

    Read Also: Ibas expresses readiness to tackle floods in Rivers

    He hailed the peaceful and successful conduct of the Local Government elections on August 30, 2025, saying it was a decisive step towards reinstating constitutional order and a testament to the resilience of the people of Rivers.

    He said, “You proved that democracy belongs to the people, that power must flow from the consent of the governed, and that no obstacle can weaken the resolve of a united citizenry”.

    Ibas commended the electorate for their discipline and active participation and praised the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for delivering a transparent, credible, and rancour-free electoral process.

    Outlining a clear roadmap for the incoming chairmen, Administrator Ibas tasked them with mastering the law, urging them to acquaint themselves with the Nigerian Constitution and all statutes guiding the local government system, which he described as the essential “compass of stewardship.”

    He appealed to them to prioritise security as their foremost priority, working closely with traditional rulers, security agencies, and community leaders to foster stability, adding that “without peace, there can be no progress”.

    He further called on them to drive economic growth to strengthen local economies by supporting small businesses, critical infrastructure upgrades, and investments in education.

    Ibas urged the chairmen to support reform, informing them of the ongoing biometric enrollment of all local government staff and urging their full support to ensure its completion for effective planning and payroll management.

    The administrator also expressed gratitude to the outgoing council administrators for their steadfast service and contributions during a critical period in the state’s history.

  • Ibas expresses readiness to tackle floods in Rivers

    Ibas expresses readiness to tackle floods in Rivers

    The Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has expressed readiness to mitigate the impact of predicted flooding and related emergencies in the state.

    Ibas gave the assurance during a high-level courtesy visit by a delegation from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

    A statement signed by the Senior Special Adviser on Media, Rivers State Government, Hector Igbikiowubo, said the NEMA delegation was led by the Director of Planning, Research, and Forecasting, Dr. Onimode Abdullahi Bandele.

    Addressing the delegation, Ibas emphasised the critical importance of community awareness and proactive measures and pointed to the state’s recently concluded multi-agency flood simulation exercise in Mbiama, Ahoada West Local Government Area, as a cornerstone of its strategy to boost public sensitization and operational readiness.

    He said, “It is our prayer that disasters do not come our way,” the Administrator stated. But as you know, the impact of last year’s flood in Rivers State was severe; hundreds of thousands of people were displaced, farmlands were destroyed, and entire communities were cut off. It is therefore crucial that we take proactive steps to mitigate such impacts should they occur again.”

    Read Also: Ibas inaugurates nine Rivers boards

    Ibas further outlined several key initiatives already underway such as the rehabilitation of IDP camps; preemptive infrastructure maintenance and enhanced sanitation.

    He announced that the state had begun the process of establishing the Rivers State Emergency Management Agency (RVSEMA). 

    He said, “This agency will serve as a dedicated, state-level body to further strengthen coordination and response capacity.

    “I feel truly encouraged by this partnership with NEMA. It is a step in the right direction toward keeping our people safe. I want to assure you that the state government will deploy all available resources in pursuit of this goal”.

    In his remarks, the leader of the NEMA delegation, Dr. Onimode Abdullahi Bandele, commended the Rivers State Government for its visionary leadership. 

    He described the Mbiama Flood Simulation Exercise as “the best of its kind ever organised in the state,” and praised its effectiveness in demonstrating the deployment of local and state resources for a coordinated emergency response.

    Bandele reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to a robust and sustained collaboration with the Rivers State Central Working Committee on Flood Management and Control 2025.

  • End to emergency rule: Ibas inaugurates nine Rivers boards

    End to emergency rule: Ibas inaugurates nine Rivers boards

    The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral, Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd) has inaugurated nine key boards  in the state ahead of the conclusion of the ongoing emergency rule on September 18th.

    Ibas charged the board members to approach their duties with urgency, integrity, and innovation, emphasising professionalism and public accountability.

    Ibas was appointed Rivers Sole Administrator by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 19th 2025 following the declaration of state of emergency on March 18th.

    At the weekend, Ibas inaugurated members of the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board (RSUBEB), Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board (RSSSSB), Rivers State Internal Revenue Service Board (RSIRSB), Rivers State Microfinance Agency (RSMA), Rivers State, Contributory Health Protection Programme Board Rivers State University Teaching Hospital Board Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA).

    Ibas in a statement signed by the Senior Special Adviser, Media, Rivers State Government, Hector Igbikiowubo, urged the appointees to be proactive and deeply committed to delivering on their critical mandates for the people of Rivers.

    Addressing the educational sector, the Administrator stressed the urgent need to enforce discipline, reduce overcrowded classrooms, improve infrastructure, and reverse poor performance indices.

    Read Also: 10,000 jobs created as Sanwo-Olu opens Oluremi Tinubu Leather Hub in Lagos

    He specifically called on the RSUBEB and the Senior Secondary Schools Board to move beyond their boardrooms and personally assess conditions in schools, especially those in remote areas.

    He said: “Accountability must guide every kobo spent,” he warned, while urging the establishment of robust data systems to accurately track enrollment, teacher deployment, infrastructure, and student performance.”

    The administrator called on the Internal Revenue Service Board to automate systems, reduce the state’s dependency on federal allocations, and plug revenue leakages.

    He noted that building public trust and transparency remained the cornerstone of effective tax collection.

    “The work you are about to embark on is not just about collecting taxes. It is about financial sustainability, trust, and accountability,” he said.

    He asked the Microfinance Agency to stimulate the local economy by improving access to credit for micro and small businesses, empowering grassroots entrepreneurship and fostering economic growth.

    Ibas described healthcare as both a moral responsibility and a strategic priority, asking the Contributory Health Protection Programme Board and the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital Board to brace up to the challenge.

    He pledged that the government would achieve its goal of providing affordable and free healthcare for vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, children, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions.

    He said: “This programme is not only about healthcare; it is about dignity, security and the promise of a better quality of life.”

    He described the teaching hospital as a critical treatment center and a vital training ground for future health professionals, noting that “the progress we make here will directly influence the quality of healthcare delivery across the state and beyond.”

    Addressing the Board of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA), the Administrator said sanitation was an issue of public safety, not mere aesthetics and called on the board to lead a comprehensive and disciplined approach to waste management.

    He said: “The task before this board is urgent and enormous. You must lead the charge to rid our cities and communities of filth,” he said. “This is not just about clearing waste—it is about instituting a system of efficiency, sustainability, and discipline.”

    He revealed that the government had already procured modern equipment for waste collection and landfill management and was constructing access roads to dump sites to improve operational efficiency.

    He challenged the board to explore innovative ways to convert waste into valuable assets such as energy and industrial raw materials.

    “Around the world, waste is being transformed into power and products. Our state cannot be left behind.”

    He also called for strict enforcement of sanitation laws and greater public awareness.

    In his concluding remarks, the Administrator reminded all newly appointed board members that their appointments are a call to service, not a privilege.

  • Ibas inaugurates nine Rivers boards

    Ibas inaugurates nine Rivers boards

    The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral, Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd) has inaugurated nine key boards  in the state ahead of the conclusion of the ongoing emergency rule on September 18th.

    Ibas charged the board members  to approach their duties with urgency, integrity, and innovation, emphasizing professionalism and public accountability.

    Ibas was appointed Rivers Sole Administrator by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 19th 2025 following the declaration of state of emergency on March 18th.

    At the weekend, Ibas inaugurated members of the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board (RSUBEB), Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board (RSSSSB), Rivers State Internal Revenue Service Board (RSIRSB), Rivers State Microfinance Agency (RSMA), Rivers State, Contributory Health Protection Programme Board

    Rivers State University Teaching Hospital Board

    Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA)

    Ibas in a statement signed by the Senior Special Adviser, Media,.Rivers State Government, Hector Igbikiowubo, urged the appointees to be proactive and deeply committed to delivering on their critical mandates for the people of Rivers.

    Addressing the educational sector, the Administrator stressed the urgent need to enforce discipline, reduce overcrowded classrooms, improve infrastructure, and reverse poor performance indices. 

    He specifically called on the RSUBEB and the Senior Secondary Schools Board to move beyond their boardrooms and personally assess conditions in schools, especially those in remote areas.

    He said: “Accountability must guide every kobo spent,” he warned, while urging the establishment of robust data systems to accurately track enrollment, teacher deployment, infrastructure, and student performance”.

    The administrator called on the Internal Revenue Service Board to automate systems, reduce the state’s dependency on federal allocations, and plug revenue leakages. 

    He noted that building public trust and transparency remained the cornerstone of effective tax collection.

    “The work you are about to embark on is not just about collecting taxes. It is about financial sustainability, trust, and accountability,” he said.

    He asked the Microfinance Agency to stimulate the local economy by improving access to credit for micro and small businesses, empowering grassroots entrepreneurship and fostering economic growth.

    Ibas described healthcare as both a moral responsibility and a strategic priority, asking the Contributory Health Protection Programme Board and the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital Board to brace up to the challenge.

    He pledged that the government would achieve its goal of providing affordable and free healthcare for vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, children, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions.

    He said: “This programme is not only about healthcare; it is about dignity, security and the promise of a better quality of life”.

    He described the teaching hospital as a critical treatment center and a vital training ground for future health professionals, noting that “the progress we make here will directly influence the quality of healthcare delivery across the state and beyond.”

    Addressing the Board of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA), the Administrator said sanitation was an issue of public safety, not mere aesthetics and called on the board to lead a comprehensive and disciplined approach to waste management.

    He said: “The task before this board is urgent and enormous. You must lead the charge to rid our cities and communities of filth,” he said. “This is not just about clearing waste—it is about instituting a system of efficiency, sustainability, and discipline.”

    He revealed that the government had already procured modern equipment for waste collection and landfill management and was constructing access roads to dump sites to improve operational efficiency.

     He challenged the board to explore innovative ways to convert waste into valuable assets such as energy and industrial raw materials.

    “Around the world, waste is being transformed into power and products. Our state cannot be left behind.” 

    He also called for strict enforcement of sanitation laws and greater public awareness.

    In his concluding remarks, the Administrator reminded all newly appointed board members that their appointments are a call to service, not a privilege.

  • Good governance advocates score Ibas high on critical infrastructure, civil service reforms

    Good governance advocates score Ibas high on critical infrastructure, civil service reforms

    The National Good Governance Advocates (NGGA) has hailed Rivers Administrator Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) on the  provision of critical infrastructures and civil service reforms in the state.

    They also lauded his transformative leadership and meticulous stewardship of resources, which have driven unprecedented development in the state.

    In its detailed report made public at a briefing in Abuja, the NGGA celebrated Ibas for rescuing Rivers from the brink of collapse and restoring stability, security, and public confidence.

    The report paints a grim picture of Rivers before Ibas’ appointment on March 18, 2025, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency.

    National president, Dr. Abiodun Israel, recounted how suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration plunged the state into chaos through “brazen abuse of constitutional norms,” including attempt to declare the seats of 27 elected lawmakers vacant over political differences.

    The NGGA noted: “The collapse of democratic institutions had become glaring… laying bare the capriciousness with which the instruments of power had been wielded.

    “This was compounded by resurgent militancy and pipeline explosions that threatened Nigeria’s oil-driven economy, creating a dagger aimed at the economic heart of Nigeria.”

    Under Ibas’s leadership, however, the group said Rivers has undergone a remarkable transformation.

    The NGGA’s report stated: “The pervasive climate of fear that once haunted the streets of Port Harcourt, the markets of Bori, the creeks of Bonny, and the oilfields of Ogoni has been replaced by a resurgent atmosphere of peace and assurance.

    ”Within a week of his administration, militancy was subdued, pipeline explosions ceased, and oil production stabilized, averting a national economic crisis.”

    The report further highlighted that “in less than two weeks into his administration, markets had begun to hum with activity; businesses awakened from forced dormancy; and residents walked streets with that long-absent sense of safety.” 

    According to the group, Ibas’ achievements extend to governance and infrastructure. The NGGA commended his commitment to democratic restoration, noting his release of funds to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission for the August 30, 2025, local government elections.

    “His infrastructural projects include the reconstruction of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex and the completion of the Mother and Child Hospital, integrated into the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital network,” the group added. 

    The report singled out his oversight of the ₦150 billion Port Harcourt Ring Road dualisation project, stating, “His insistence on transparency and delivery has set a new standard for accountability in Rivers State governance, and we see this as an exemplar of stewardship, not self-interest.”

    The NGGA rebutted allegations of contract inflation and treasury looting against Ibas, calling them “fabricated fiction” orchestrated by Fubara and his allies.

    Read Also: Group commends Ibas for key projects in Rivers, hail emergency rule as era of renewal

    The report declared: “The allegations… accusing Admiral Ibas of orchestrating a fraudulent inflation of contracts amounting to nearly half a trillion naira… are nothing short of manufactured stories from the laboratory of political propaganda.”

    Looking forward, the NGGA urged continued reforms, including the completion of the House of Assembly reconstruction and the strengthening of security through community policing.

    The report emphasised: “Admiral Ibas has laid the foundation; it is the duty of all stakeholders to safeguard and build upon it.”

    The NGGA thanked President Tinubu for his timely intervention and praising Ibas’s disciplined leadership, stating, “Let Admiral Ibas not merely be remembered for stabilising a state under emergency, but for designing the foundational stones for its peaceful democratic rebirth.”

  • Group commends Ibas for key projects in Rivers, hail emergency rule as era of renewal

    Group commends Ibas for key projects in Rivers, hail emergency rule as era of renewal

    The National Patriotic Front has commended the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), for what it described as “bold and transformative steps” in stabilising the state under emergency rule.

    In a statement issued at the weekend in Port Harcourt and signed by its President, Marcus Dakas, the group said Ibas has demonstrated uncommon leadership in steering Rivers through its most delicate phase in recent history. 

    The group noted that, contrary to fears that emergency rule would deepen instability, the Sole Administrator had managed to restore calm, strengthen institutions and initiate critical projects that are now reshaping the state’s development trajectory.

    “The National Patriotic Front salutes the courage, clarity and sense of duty that Admiral Ibas has brought to Rivers State. What many thought would be a lost period of drift has become, under his watch, a season of renewal and a rebirth of confidence in governance. His interventions in security, infrastructure and preparations for democratic transition deserve recognition from all Nigerians,” Dakas said.

    The group said security has been the bedrock of Ibas’s administration. By instituting a joint security team to patrol urban centres and vulnerable communities, Ibas was credited with stemming the tide of violent crime and communal unrest. 

    The group noted that Port Harcourt and its environs, once tense with uncertainty, have recorded a remarkable return to peace and social life.

    “The Sole Administrator has succeeded in bringing tremendous peace to Rivers State. Markets are bustling again, businesses are reopening with confidence, and residents are experiencing a sense of safety long absent from their daily lives. This renewed atmosphere is one of the most profound achievements of his administration,” Dakas said.

    Beyond security, the group praised Ibas for pressing ahead with key infrastructural and social investments. It pointed to the ongoing reconstruction of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex as symbolic of the return to institutional order.

    The group also commended the completion of the Mother and Child Hospital in Port Harcourt, set to be integrated into the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, as a major step toward improving maternal and child health in the state.

    The group further lauded Ibas for scrutinising the Port Harcourt Ring Road project, nothing that N150 billion had been released for the dualisation.

    They described the Sole Administrator’s insistence on accountability and project delivery as “a refreshing example of transparent governance in Rivers State”.

    On the return to democracy, the group expressed delight at preparations for the August 30, 2025, local government elections, and commended Ibas for releasing funds to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RVSIEC).

    “By empowering RVSIEC and fixing a date for grassroots elections, Admiral Ibas has shown his sincerity of purpose. He has no hidden agenda but is only a steward of this transition. His commitment to democratic restoration should reassure Rivers people and silence the cynics,” Dakas added.

    The group also recalled the recent oversight visit by the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State led by House Leader, Professor Julius Ihonvbere. 

    Read Also: Reps committee commends Rivers Sole Administrator Ibas

    Dakas said the committee’s commendation of Ibas’ work and pledge to support the return of democratic rule aligned with its own findings that Rivers is firmly on the path to recovery.

    “The endorsement from the federal legislature is a strong signal that the emergency administration is not only succeeding has achieved its goal. We urge Rivers people to sustain their cooperation with the Sole Administrator in the months ahead,” the NPF noted.

    Concluding, the organisation described the ongoing emergency rule as more than a caretaker arrangement, but a “season of grace” during which Rivers is being repositioned for peace, stability and development.

    “Emergencies are often associated with despair, but in Rivers this one is producing renewal. Admiral Ibas has turned crisis into opportunity and laid the foundation for stronger democratic governance. History will remember this period not as a pause but as a rebirth, a grace period in which Rivers State rediscovered its promise,” Dakas said.

  • We’ve laid foundation for lasting peace, stability in Rivers, says Ibas

    We’ve laid foundation for lasting peace, stability in Rivers, says Ibas

    The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has said the deployment of inclusive dialogue and non-partisan consultations in the state’s reconciliation process have led to the restoration of calm and political stability.

    Ibas said this when he hosted the House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee on Emergency Rule Implementation, led by its Chairman, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, at the Government House in Port Harcourt yesterday.

    In a statement by the Senior Special Adviser on Media to Rivers State Government, Hector Igbikiowubo, the Administrator noted that reconciliation efforts and the willingness of political actors to collaborate had laid the foundation for lasting peace in the state.

    He said: “I am pleased that, God willing, we have put major differences behind us.”

    Ibas acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s pivotal role in facilitating the peace process.

    The Administrator reflected on ongoing reforms, such as leadership training and salary structure adjustments for civil servants; a historic biometric verification for staff and pensioners to ensure transparency and clearance of long-standing arrears owed to health workers.

    He listed other reforms as streamlined pension payments, now made directly to beneficiaries, and free health insurance for all state pensioners under the revitalized RIVCHIPP scheme, with mandatory enrollment for civil servants.

    Read Also: Ibas inaugurates RISIEC to conduct Rivers LG poll

    Ibas applauded the improved cooperation between communities and security agencies, saying this had helped in curbing cultism, kidnapping, and infrastructure vandalism.

    He said the formation of a Farmers-Herders Committee had also prevented communal clashes.

    “Plans are underway to deploy a critical infrastructure surveillance system to bolster security and enable early threat detection across the state,” the Administrator added.

    He expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Port Harcourt Ring Road project, describing the contractor’s performance as “regrettable”.

    Despite receiving 77 per cent mobilisation of N150 billion of the N195 billion contract sum, the project remained largely unexecuted.

    He said: “Worse still, the contractor has requested an 87 per cent variation, potentially inflating the total cost to N367 billion.

    “A team of professionals has completed a comprehensive review, and it is clear Rivers State has received the short end of the stick. Engagements with the contractor will begin in the coming days. Based on the outcome, we will determine the next steps.”

  • Ibas appoints chairmen, members of eight boards

    Ibas appoints chairmen, members of eight boards

    The Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), has appointed chairmen and members of eight boards in the state.

    A statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, said the Administrator constituted the Rivers State University Governing Council with Okey Wali as its chairman.

    Other members of the council are Mr Theophilus Owhor, Mr. Uche Messiah Olowo, Soibiton Ngoji Kio Isokariari, Mr Gogo Cookey, Sir Micheal L. Vincent, Prof. Joseph Atubokiki Ajienka, Dr.  Tamunoibikari G.S. Epelle, among others.

    The Administrator appointed Samuel Ogeh as the Chairman of the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Commission and named Monday Ledee Yimonah, Ibiene Cotton Amachree, Margaret Ngozi Ikegwuru, among others, as members and Mr. John T. Pepple as Secretary.

    Ibas appointed Mr. Tony Egwurugwu as the Chairman of the Rivers State Senior Secondary Education with Dr. Austin ThankGod Jonah, Princess Clara Denirari Woke, Mr. Nwisabari Bani Samuel, Mrs. Baniba Abella Briggs Iti, among others, as members.

    He named Sir Israel Egbunefu as the Chairman of the Rivers State Internal Revenue with Prof. Tamunonimim Anipiworima Ngerebo, Osepiribo Ben-Willie, Mr. Okas Wike among others as members.

    Read Also: Ibas inaugurates RISIEC, seeks credible council polls

    Ibas also appointed Dr Samuel Nwanosike as the Chairman of the Rivers State Waate Management Board with Wokoma Amakiri Ibimina named as the Managing Director and Dr. Augusta Ayotamuno, Gershon Owajikagop Ogbuluijah, Prof. Iyenemi I. Kakulu, Dr. Thankgod Bariyaa among others appointed as members.

    Ibas further named Prof. Princewill Chike as the Chairman of the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme with Dr. Vetty Agala as Executive Secretary and Dr. Mangibo Daniel, Mr. Jack Tamuno Tonye , Laleobe Alemami Favour,

    Amb. Victor Nwikpo among others as members.

    He appointed Prof. Adolphus Toby as the Chairman of the Rivers State Microfinance Agency;  Mrs. Onene Osila Obele-Oshoko as Managing Director and Prof. John Ohaka, Mr Desire Danagogo Bob-Manuel and Philip-Brown Tomunobere among others as members.

    He named Dr Samson Parker as the Chairman of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital’s Board, Prof. Chizindu Akubudike Alikor as  Chief Medical Director, Dr. Simon Sylvester Uriah, Deputy Chief Medical Director and Prof. Kenneth Wariso, Prof. Elizabeth Akon Awoyesuku among others as members.

  • Ibas inaugurates new permanent secretaries in Rivers

    Ibas inaugurates new permanent secretaries in Rivers

    The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, swore in new permanent secretaries, charging them to uphold the highest standards of accountability, due process, and policy execution.

    A statement signed by the Senior Special Adviser, Media, Rivers State Government, Hector Igbikiowubo, said Ibas inaugurated the eight permanent secretaries at the executive chambers of Government House, Port Harcourt.

    The new officials are Imaonyani Roselin Ephraim-George, Dabite Sokari George, Soibitein Duke Harry, Lauretta Davies Dimkpa, Uche R. Ideozu, Jeremiah Egwu, Nicholas Iminabo Wokoma, and Vera Sam Dike.

    Ibas emphasised that the stability of the public service, the clarity of policy direction, and the integrity of government operations depended on their leadership.

    He noted that the retirement of experienced civil servants had created gaps in institutional memory and administrative efficiency, making their appointments timely and strategic.

    He said, “Your emergence is critical at this time. You must promote peace through good governance by ensuring efficient service delivery. Your work must translate into tangible impacts that improve the daily lives of our citizens—moving beyond mere activity to measurable outcomes”.

    Read Also: Rivers lawmakers pay in 2025 Budget plan, says Ibas

    The administrator urged the new permanent secretaries to drive institutional reforms, embrace innovation and digital transformation, and eliminate inefficiencies in service delivery. He stressed the importance of inter-ministerial collaboration, fiscal discipline, and transparency in financial management.

    “Government must function as one cohesive system working toward shared goals. You must ensure prudent use of public funds—every naira allocated must be accounted for. Be deliberate, transparent, and accountable in all financial matters,” he said.

     Ibas also called on them to challenge the status quo, foster a culture of excellence, and restore public confidence in governance through their actions.

    The ceremony marked a significant step in strengthening the administrative framework of Rivers State, with high expectations for improved service delivery and policy implementation.