Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok Ete Ekwe Ibas, on Friday inaugurated 23 newly appointed Local Government Area (LGA) administrators on April 11, 2025, at Government House in Port Harcourt.
Addressing the administrators, Ibas emphasized the need for accountability, transparency, and a strong sense of service to build trust and foster sustainable development in their respective areas.
He urged them to prioritize key areas including sanitation and environment management, primary healthcare, welfare and discipline of local government civil servants, primary education, and youth engagement. These areas, he stated, would form the basis for assessing their performance in the coming weeks.
Ibas highlighted the challenges faced by the State following the emergency proclamation and the need for strong leadership to restore peace and stability. He emphasized that the selection of the administrators was based on their capacity, commitment to service, and the trust placed in them to bring governance closer to the people.
“This is a moment in history,” he said. “You must rise to the occasion as impartial leaders and help me deliver on the mandate given by Mr. President to restore peace and stability and work towards returning all democratic institutions in the State.”
Ibas issued a stern warning against any form of recklessness, abuse of office, or misuse of public funds. He emphasized the need for accountability and value for money in all projects and policies implemented.
“The people of Rivers State deserve to see how their money is being used,” he said. “It is your duty to provide proper accountability and value. We will work out the necessary modalities to monitor and ensure good compliance with the principles of due process, transparency, and zero tolerance for financial recklessness across all local governments.”
The inauguration marked a significant step in restoring administrative structures in Rivers State and setting a new course for development under the leadership of Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas.
