In a significant political development, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd.), former Chief of the Naval Staff, has been appointed as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State. His appointment brings a wealth of military experience and administrative expertise to the leadership of the oil-rich state.

Born on September 27, 1960, in Nko, Cross River State, Vice Admiral Ibas has had a distinguished career in the Nigerian Navy, spanning over four decades. He enlisted in the Nigerian Defence Academy as part of the 26 Regular Course in 1979 and was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant on January 1, 1983. His career saw him rise through the ranks, culminating in his appointment as the 20th indigenous Chief of the Naval Staff in 2015.

Vice Admiral Ibas is an alumnus of several prestigious military institutions, including the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji; Amphibious Warfare School, United States Marine Corps University; and the National Defence College in Islamabad, Pakistan. He also holds a Master’s degree in Defence and Strategic Studies from Quaid-I-Azam University in Pakistan.

During his tenure in the Nigerian Navy, he held key appointments such as Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Chief of Administration at the Naval Headquarters, and General Managing Director/CEO of Nigerian Navy Holdings Limited. His leadership was instrumental in enhancing Nigeria’s maritime security and logistics capabilities.

After retiring from the Navy in January 2021, he served as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Ghana from 2021 to 2023, further strengthening diplomatic ties between both nations.

Vice Admiral Ibas has received numerous awards and decorations, including the Silver Jubilee Medal, ECOMOG Medal, and the General Service Star. He is a fellow of several professional institutions, including the Nigerian Institute of Management and the International Institute of Professional Security.

His appointment as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State signals a new phase in his career, as he is now tasked with navigating the political landscape of the state and ensuring stability. With his extensive leadership experience, stakeholders anticipate a disciplined and strategic approach to governance under his administration.