Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok Ete Ekwe Ibas, has called on the Senate support for crucial legislative support to enable the effective implementation of his administration’s outlined policies aimed at driving development and restoring lasting peace in the state.
During a courtesy visit by the Senate Committee on Works, led by Senator Barinada Mpigi, to the Government House in Port Harcourt on Friday, Ibas emphasized that the outlined policies are focused on revitalizing infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted socioeconomic activities, and improving the quality of life for residents.
Also present at the meeting was a delegation from Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, led by Managing Director Dr. Peer Lubasch.
Vice Admiral Ibas explained that his administration is finalizing a new state budget that reflects its core priorities, including healthcare, education, social services, and the expansion of infrastructure. He noted that the outlined policies are designed to stimulate job creation and investment in agriculture, infrastructure, and technology, but these efforts require legislative and financial support from the federal level.
“We are in the process of putting together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services, and continued infrastructural development. We have worked diligently to ensure that this process is transparent, inclusive, and expedient,” Ibas said.
He stressed that the outlined policies would remain incomplete without legislative backing and access to necessary resources. “As we move forward with these initiatives, we need your continued support to help us secure the necessary resources and legislative backing to bring them to fruition,” he added.
Vice Admiral Ibas urged the Senate to consider the strategic importance of Rivers State, describing it as the nation’s economic hub, home to key assets such as seaports, airports, oil and gas installations, refineries, and petrochemical facilities. Despite this, he said the state, like others, struggles with the maintenance and expansion of vital infrastructure due to resource constraints.
“Rivers State, the treasure base of the nation, is a key economic hub. However, like most other states, we are faced with challenges in maintaining and expanding infrastructure. We need your cooperation to secure the necessary federal support for these projects,” he said.
He acknowledged ongoing federal projects in the state but appealed for stronger support to ensure timely completion. “Your continued advocacy within the National Assembly will be instrumental in ensuring that Rivers State receives the attention and resources needed to succeed.”
Since assuming office on March 20, 2025, Ibas said his administration has focused on restoring peace and stability in Rivers State. He stated that the outlined policies are aimed at building a conducive environment for investment and sustainable development.
“We have engaged key stakeholders, including civil society organizations, traditional rulers, local government heads, and public servants, to rebuild trust and ensure stability. I believe that with your support and collaboration, we can turn Rivers State into a beacon of peace, prosperity, and development,” he said.
In his remarks, Senator Mpigi confirmed that the committee was in the state to inspect key federal projects such as the Bodo-Bonny link road and the Coastal road project, which he said was already 40 percent completed. He assured that these efforts would bring lasting benefits to the people of Rivers State.
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Senator Mpigi also recognized the importance of the State of Emergency declared in the state and encouraged the Administrator to remain steadfast in securing infrastructure and protecting the lives and properties of residents.
Vice Admiral Ibas concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the outlined policies and expressed optimism that, with federal backing, Rivers State would stay on its path to progress and peace.
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