Ibas Says Rivers Has Become Model Of Good Governance

The former Administrator of Rivers State, Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has said that he left a legacy of governance in Rivers State that has become a model for good governance.
Ibas, who spoke at a public lecture to mark the end of his tenure as the sole administrator of the state, declared that the state had been successfully stabilised under his stewardship.
The Public Lecture themed, “Democracy and Good Governance,” brought together academics, policymakers, and citizens to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey and the recent experience of Rivers State.
Vice Admiral Ibas recalled that his core mandate was to restore peace and stability in the face of severe insecurity, political impasse, and a breakdown of public trust, and noted that with the cooperation of key stakeholders, his administration had successfully conducted peaceful local government elections, reinstating democratic governance at the grassroots level.
“Emergency rule was never a choice. It was a necessity. Yet, in hindsight, it offered us enduring blessings, that peace is priceless, that without security no other aspiration is possible, and that the indomitable spirit of Rivers people cannot be broken,” he said.
He drew a connection between the thanksgiving service held two days before the public lecture by describing the lecture as “a covenant renewal with the people of Rivers State, an affirmation that democracy must deliver and that governance must always be rooted in service.”
He commended the guest lecturer, Prof. Abiodun Amuda-Kannike, for his insightful presentation and expressed gratitude to the people of the state for their support, while calling on all citizens to recommit to the values of tolerance, reconciliation and collective progress.
“The stability we have restored is the foundation upon which democracy must now be rebuilt,” he charged. “Much remains to be done, but the foundations have been laid. Let us build on it and prove to the world that Rivers State, the treasure base of the nation, can also be the model of good governance in Nigeria.”
The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Worika, described the event as “a defining moment” in the state’s history, marking the conclusion of six months of emergency rule and the return to democratic governance.
He emphasized the “sacred duty” of all citizens to nurture institutions that uphold justice, fairness, and accountability.
The keynote lecturer, Prof. Abiodun Amuda-Kannike, underscored the imperativeness of inclusivity, genuine citizen empowerment beyond monetary handouts, and sustainable policies. He highlighted the need to prioritise agriculture through innovation and security to drive economic diversification.
Prof. Amuda-Kannike urged Rivers people to embrace dialogue, respect, and forgiveness as essential tools for peace building, asserting that “Rivers State, a place of beauty and light, must shine again as an example for other states across Nigeria.”
The lecture served as a platform for robust discussion on the way forward for the state, reinforcing a collective optimism for a future built on good governance and enduring democratic principles.