Rivers State Administrator, His Excellency Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, says the state has been successfully stabilized under his leadership, laying the foundation for it to emerge as a model of good governance in Nigeria.
He made the declaration on Tuesday during a Public Lecture themed “Democracy and Good Governance,” which brought together scholars, policymakers, and citizens to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey and the recent experience of Rivers State.
Ibas recalled that when he assumed office on March 18, 2025, his core mandate was to restore peace and stability at a time when the state was facing insecurity, political stalemate, and public distrust. He noted that with the cooperation of key stakeholders, his administration was able to conduct peaceful local government elections, reinstating democracy at the grassroots level.
According to him, emergency rule was never a choice but a necessity. “Yet, in hindsight, it offered us enduring blessings—that peace is priceless, that without security no other aspiration is possible, and that the indomitable spirit of Rivers people cannot be broken,” he said.
He described the public lecture as a “covenant renewal with the people of Rivers State” following a Thanksgiving Service held two days earlier, stressing that governance must always remain rooted in service.
Commending the guest lecturer, Prof. Abiodun Amuda-Kannike, for his insightful presentation on “Good Governance and Democratic Dividends,” the Administrator urged that the lecture’s submissions be widely circulated.
Expressing gratitude to Rivers people for their overwhelming support, Vice Admiral Ibas charged all citizens to recommit to tolerance, reconciliation, and collective progress.
“The stability we have restored is the foundation upon which democracy must now be rebuilt. Much remains to be done, but the foundations have been laid. Let us build on it and prove to the world that Rivers State, the treasure base of the nation, can also be the model of good governance in Nigeria,” he declared.
In his welcome remarks, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, described the event as “a defining moment” in the state’s history, marking the conclusion of six months of emergency rule and the transition back to democratic governance. He emphasized the “sacred duty” of citizens to strengthen institutions that uphold justice, fairness, and accountability.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Prof. Amuda-Kannike stressed the importance of inclusivity, genuine citizen empowerment, and sustainable policies. He highlighted agriculture as a critical sector that must be driven by innovation and secured to support economic diversification.
He further urged Rivers people to embrace dialogue, respect, and forgiveness as tools for peacebuilding, adding that “Rivers State, a place of beauty and light, must shine again as an example for other states across Nigeria.”
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