In a bold move to boost government performance and service delivery, the Rivers State Government under the leadership of Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has launched a four-day leadership training for senior civil servants in the State. “We’re training our workforce to achieve greater efficiency.”
The workshop, held in Port Harcourt, brings together Permanent Secretaries, Directors, and Local Government Administrators for a focused session on transformational leadership and sustainable development. Speaking at the workshop today, Ibas clarified that the aim of the training is to achieve greater efficiency among the workforce – changing the culture of public service in the state.
“This isn’t just another training program,” Ibas said at the opening. “We are building a new kind of workforce—one that thinks ahead, delivers results, and adapts to the ever-changing needs of the people.”
This workshop—organized in partnership with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS)—is built to inspire long-term change. It targets real challenges in civil service: slow systems, lack of innovation, and weak accountability.
Vice Admiral Ibas urged participants to go beyond listening: “Use this training to challenge the old ways. Learn, unlearn, and return to your offices with fresh ideas that can be put into action immediately.”
The workshop also highlights the Administrator’s broader plan to strengthen local government structures, empower public servants, and foster a culture of integrity and innovation throughout the government.
Director-General of NIPSS, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, described the training as “a timely intervention” that will help fill leadership gaps and encourage collaboration across government layers.
Supporting the initiative, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, said, “This is about building a workforce that is prepared for today’s challenges. The Administrator is deeply committed to equipping our civil servants to succeed.”
Acting Head of Service, Dr. Iyingi Brown, added, “Transformation starts with people. If we want real results, we must invest in the people delivering them.”
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