The Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), has honoured exceptional young people from the state who have brought pride to Nigeria through sports and pageantry.
At a colourful ceremony inside the Government House Banquet Hall in Port Harcourt, Vice Admiral Ibas celebrated a wide range of athletes from Team Rivers, including stars in wrestling, swimming, table tennis, boxing, judo, basketball, kickboxing, and even cycling. He also honoured the famous Rivers Angels Football Club and reigning Miss Africa, Tamunosoye Karibi-Whyte.
In his speech, Ibas said the celebration was not just about trophies or fame, but about recognizing hard work, discipline, and the inspiring stories of young people making a difference. “When our youths are empowered, inspired, and given opportunities, they will not only rise—they will soar beyond expectations,” he said.
He praised the athletes for showing strength, courage, and determination. He also said that whatever support the government gives is only a small “token of gratitude” compared to the great legacy these youths are creating.
Vice Admiral Ibas gave special praise to the Super Falcons of Nigeria for their victory at the West African Women’s Cup of Nations, calling it a “monumental achievement.” He also applauded Team Rivers for their outstanding performance at the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, where they brought home 199 medals — 76 gold, 56 silver, and 65 bronze — the state’s best performance ever.
More cheers went to Rivers Angels Football Club, known for their three-time Nigerian Federation Cup wins, Rivers United for qualifying for the CAF Champions League, and the ever-vibrant Rivers Hoppers.
Vice Admiral Ibas said the state government is fully committed to youth empowerment through education, sports, entrepreneurship, and technology. “Excellence knows no boundary,” he said. “As a government, we will keep investing in young people. When we invest in the youth, we invest in the future.”
He promised to strengthen youth policies, improve sports infrastructure, and give young people more say in decisions that affect them. According to him, “This generation is not just the future—it is also the present.”
Professor Ibibia Lucky Worika, the Secretary to the State Government, said the event was designed to motivate all youths in Rivers State. He highlighted several youth-friendly programmes already in place, such as educational support, skills acquisition, grants, and sports development. “Let your talents shine, your voices build, and your dreams stay alive,” he urged the youths.
Representing the awardees, athlete Cyprian Miracle thanked the Rivers State Government for supporting them and giving them a platform to succeed. He said the honour would push them to do even more.
The event showed how Rivers State is not just cheering success but actively building it—one young achiever at a time.
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