PROFILE: Meet the Newly Appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas
In a significant development for Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (retired), a decorated former Chief of the Naval Staff, has been appointed as the Sole Administrator of the state. With an illustrious career spanning over four decades in the Nigerian Navy and a wealth of experience in leadership, administration, and strategic governance, Vice Admiral Ibas is poised to bring his expertise to bear in steering the affairs of Rivers State.
Born on 27 September 1960 in Nko, Cross River State, Vice Admiral Ibas began his educational journey at Nko Primary School and later attended the prestigious Hope Waddell Training Institute in Calabar. His academic pursuits took him to the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), where he was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant in 1983, marking the beginning of a distinguished military career.
Throughout his service in the Nigerian Navy, Vice Admiral Ibas attended numerous military courses both locally and internationally. These included the Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course in India, Primary Pilot Training in Kaduna, and specialized training in Amphibious Warfare at the United States Marine Corps University. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Defence and Strategic Studies from Quaid-I-Azam University in Islamabad, Pakistan, underscoring his commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
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Vice Admiral Ibas has held several key appointments in the Nigerian Navy, including Commanding Officer of the Nigerian Navy Underwater Warfare School, Director of Maritime Warfare at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, and Chief of the Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021. His tenure as the 20th indigenous Chief of the Naval Staff was marked by significant reforms and modernization of the Nigerian Navy. After retiring from active service, he served as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the Republic of Ghana from 2021 to 2023, further solidifying his diplomatic and administrative credentials.
A recipient of numerous awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Service Star and the Admiralty Medal, Vice Admiral Ibas is widely respected for his dedication to service and excellence. His professional affiliations include membership in the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), and the US Naval Institute, among others.
Beyond his professional achievements, Vice Admiral Ibas is a family man, happily married to Mrs. Theresa Ibas, with whom he shares children. He is also an avid reader, documentary enthusiast, and golf player, reflecting a well-rounded personality.
As the newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibas brings a wealth of experience, discipline, and strategic vision to the role. His appointment is expected to usher in a new era of effective governance, stability, and development for the state. Residents of Rivers State and stakeholders across the nation are optimistic that his leadership will address critical challenges and drive progress in the region.
With his proven track record in leadership and administration, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of governance in Rivers State and deliver on the expectations of the people. His appointment marks a new chapter in the state’s journey toward peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.
By PRNigeria
