The Rivers State Government has announced a major boost to its workforce through the approval of the full rehabilitation and modernization of the Rivers State Secretariat Complex. Alongside this, the government unveiled a 106-unit housing scheme for civil servants, a move described as both historic and transformational for the state’s public service sector.
The announcements were made by the State Administrator, His Excellency Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd.), during the 2025 Civil Service Week Gala and Awards Ceremony held at Government House, Port Harcourt.
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The Rivers State Secretariat, one of the most iconic administrative complexes in the Niger Delta, is set for a complete facelift. According to the Administrator, the project aims to transform the infrastructure into https://youtu.be/mua71nPwt0I?si=M8ntigoS_qDbmDi1a modern, efficient, and conducive work environment that matches the demands of a 21st-century civil service.
“These interventions are designed not only to recognize your service but also to improve your welfare in tangible and lasting ways. We must build an administration that is efficient, effective, and truly citizen-centric,” Vice Admiral Ibas said. Observers say this move could reposition the Rivers State Civil Service as a model for other states, ensuring productivity, innovation, and better service delivery.
In addition to the rehabilitation project, the government also approved the provision of 106 housing units for civil servants. The initiative is intended to address longstanding concerns over the welfare and living conditions of workers, many of whom face challenges with housing affordability. Vice Admiral Ibas noted that civil servants are “the backbone of the state’s governance,” stressing that the new housing scheme is a practical demonstration of the administration’s commitment to their welfare.
The 2025 Civil Service Week Gala also doubled as an awards ceremony to recognize the invaluable contributions of retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries. The Administrator described them as “the bedrock of the state’s administration,” highlighting decades of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering commitment to public service. He urged serving officers to draw inspiration from their predecessors and continue to innovate in the delivery of governance. “This ceremony is a symbol of deep appreciation,” Ibas said. “Your resilience and dedication have kept the service strong. The future must be built on your example.”
In her welcome address, the Acting Head of Rivers State Civil Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Inyingi Brown, reiterated the central role of civil servants in governance. She described the civil service as the “engine room of government” and praised the Administrator for his unwavering support. Dr. Brown further pledged that the civil service, under her leadership, would embrace reforms, innovation, and technology adoption to improve service delivery. “A society that does not honor its heroes is not worthy of emulation,” she said, promising to build on the legacy of discipline and loyalty laid by predecessors. She projected that by 2030, Rivers State Civil Service would become a model of efficiency and transparency in Nigeria.
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Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Sir Promise Njowhor, President of the Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries, commended the government for what he described as a first-of-its-kind recognition. “For once, since the creation of the state, we are being honored. Our morale has been lifted,” Njowhor said. He also pledged the retirees’ continued support for government initiatives, describing them as a resource pool of experienced administrators available to contribute to state development.
