President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, and appointing Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as Administrator.
President Tinubu suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state House of Assembly for six months.
Here are a few key facts about Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas:
Former Chief of Naval Staff: Ibas served as Nigeria’s 22nd Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021, overseeing the Nigerian Navy during a critical period of maritime security challenges.
Early Life and Education: Born on 27 September 1960 in Nko, Cross River State, Ibas began his primary education at Nko Primary School and completed it at Big Qua Primary School, Calabar, in 1971. He attended Hope Waddell Training Institute, Calabar (1972–1976), and the School of Basic Studies, Ogoja (1977–1979).
Military Career: Ibas enlisted in the Nigerian Defence Academy as a member of the 26th Regular Course on 20 June 1979 and was commissioned as a sub-lieutenant on 1 January 1983.
Extensive Training: He underwent numerous military courses, including Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course in India, Primary Pilot Training in Kaduna, and the Amphibious Warfare School at the U.S. Marine Corps University in Virginia. He also attended the National Defence College in Islamabad, Pakistan, where he earned a master’s degree in defence and strategic studies.
Naval Roles: Ibas served in various capacities, including as a midshipman on NNS Ruwan Yaro, NNS Obuma, and NNS Aradu. He was the commanding officer of the Nigerian Navy Underwater Warfare School and the Forward Operating Base Ibaka.
Leadership Positions: He held key roles such as Provost Marshal, Principal Staff Officer to the Chief of Naval Staff, and Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command. He also served as Chief of Logistics and CEO of Nigerian Navy Holdings Limited.
Diplomatic Service: After retiring from the Navy in 2021, Ibas was appointed Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ghana, leveraging his expertise in security and international diplomacy.
Awards and Recognitions: Ibas received several accolades, including the ECOMOG Medal, Forces Service Star, and the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) conferred by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Appointment as Rivers Administrator: On 18 March 2025, President Tinubu appointed Ibas as Administrator of Rivers State following the declaration of a state of emergency amid political tensions between Governor Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike.
Personal Life: Ibas is married to Barrister Theresa Ibas, and they have three children. He enjoys reading, watching documentaries, and playing golf.
Legacy: Known for his strategic leadership and commitment to national service, Ibas’s appointment as Rivers State Administrator underscores his reputation as a seasoned administrator and peacemaker.
