Rivers Sole Administrator Appoints LGA Heads, Cites Urgency in Grassroots Governance
Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has explained that his recent decision to appoint administrators for the 23 local government areas was driven by the urgent need to strengthen governance at the grassroots level and accelerate the implementation of President Bola Tinubu’s directives in the state.
Ibas made this known during a meeting with the newly appointed LGA administrators on Friday, April 11, 2025, at the Government House in Port Harcourt. He emphasized that the appointments were made out of necessity, following his visits to several local government areas, where he observed a clear need for capable hands to support the administration’s goals.
“Since assuming this role, I have taken time to visit some local government areas and engaged with civil servants at those levels,” Ibas stated. “It became evident to me that the task of administering the entire state, especially under the current emergency conditions declared by Mr. President, cannot be accomplished alone.”
According to the former Chief of Naval Staff, the selection of the 23 administrators, which took place on April 7, 2025, was based on merit, capacity, and a demonstrated commitment to service. He charged them to embrace their new responsibilities with integrity and a deep sense of purpose.
“This moment marks a significant chapter in the history of our state,” Ibas noted. “Your appointments are not arbitrary. They reflect your proven ability to lead, your dedication to public service, and the confidence reposed in you to help restore stability and democratic governance across Rivers State.”
He outlined key priority areas for the new administrators, including environmental sanitation, primary healthcare delivery, local government staff discipline, primary education, youth empowerment, and welfare services.
Ibas stressed the importance of ethical leadership, transparency, and accountability in public service. “We will not tolerate misconduct, financial mismanagement, or abuse of office in any form. Every kobo allocated to the local governments must be accounted for, and every project must reflect value for money,” he said.
The Sole Administrator further announced plans to establish mechanisms for strict oversight and compliance with due process in all 23 LGAs, ensuring that public funds are used strictly for their intended purposes.
“Our people deserve transparency. They deserve to know how their resources are being utilized. It is your duty to provide clear records and measurable outcomes. We will put in place modalities to ensure compliance with all governance standards, with zero tolerance for financial recklessness.”
The appointments come at a critical time as the state navigates a political transition and seeks to restore democratic institutions in line with federal directives. Ibas urged the administrators to rise above partisanship and focus on delivering meaningful development to the people of Rivers State.
