The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd), has announced that his administration is in the process of preparing a new state budget after the Supreme Court invalidated the 2025 budget.
Speaking at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday, during a meeting with a delegation from the Rivers Caucus of the National Assembly, Ibas assured that the new budget would prioritize critical sectors such as education, healthcare, social services, and infrastructural development—similar to the key focus areas of the annulled budget.
“We have acted swiftly in response to the Supreme Court verdict and are putting together a new budget that reflects our dedication to healthcare, education, social services, and continued infrastructural development,” Ibas stated.
Legislative Support and Transparency
The 10-member delegation, led by Senator Barinada Mpigi (Rivers South-East), included key figures such as Senator Allwell Onyesoh, House of Representatives Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda, and Hon. Dumnamene Dekor.
Ibas assured lawmakers that the budget drafting process would be transparent and inclusive, with an emphasis on expediting its implementation to minimize disruptions to ongoing projects.
“Our goal is to ensure that we do not lose any more time in making necessary investments that will improve the lives of our citizens,” he said.
He highlighted that, beyond core sectors, the new budget would also focus on job creation, agricultural development, infrastructure expansion, and advancements in technology.
Recognizing the importance of legislative backing, Ibas appealed for continued support from Rivers lawmakers in securing necessary resources for the budget’s success.
“As I have earlier stated, we need your support as the key representatives of Rivers State in the National Assembly to help us secure the necessary resources and legislative backing to bring this initiative to fruition,” he emphasized.
Security and Stability in Rivers State
In addition to budgetary discussions, Ibas addressed the security situation in Rivers State, particularly in light of the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu.
“Our state has faced difficult challenges, especially with the declaration of the state of emergency,” he noted. “This was a necessary measure to address the insecurity that threatened the very fabric of our communities.”
He praised the collaborative efforts of security agencies, the federal government, and the resilience of Rivers residents in restoring peace.
“We have made notable progress in restoring peace and stability to our great state,” Ibas said, adding that his administration remains committed to sustaining law and order in partnership with the Nigerian military, police, and other security agencies.
“Our goal has been to create an environment where our citizens can live in safety and pursue their livelihoods without fear,” he added.
Commitment to Reconciliation and Economic Development
Ibas further emphasized the importance of community engagement, dialogue, and reconciliation in strengthening unity within Rivers State.
“Dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusivity have been key to building trust among our people,” he said. “We are determined to strengthen the bond of unity in Rivers State and foster an environment where every citizen feels valued, heard, and respected.”
He also acknowledged the critical role of the Rivers State Caucus of the National Assembly in supporting these peace-building initiatives.
“We are deeply grateful for the support you have provided so far. But we must continue to work together to ensure that this process is sustained and that Rivers State remains a model of peace, unity, and progress for the entire nation,” he added.
Looking ahead, Ibas reiterated that alongside peace and security, economic stability and development remain top priorities for his administration.
