Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), has flagged off formal transition activities ahead of the state’s return to democratic governance, six months after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state.
The process will begin on Sunday, September 14, 2025, with an inter-denominational thanksgiving service at the Ecumenical Centre, Abonnima Wharf Road, Port Harcourt.
According to a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Lucky Worika, the service will bring together permanent secretaries, local government chairmen, security chiefs, traditional rulers, business leaders, and other dignitaries.
On Friday, while receiving the report of the August 30 Local Government Election, Vice Admiral Ibas declared that the presidential mandate handed to him on March 18, 2025, had been successfully carried out.
“When Mr. President entrusted me with this difficult assignment, I pledged to serve with courage and impartiality. Six months after, we have restored calm, stabilized the state, and ensured that Rivers remains a strong economic ally of the nation. While challenges remain, I can confidently say the presidential mandate has been fulfilled,” Ibas said.
He expressed appreciation to security agencies, civil servants, traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents of Rivers State for their cooperation during what he described as a “trying but purposeful period.”
The thanksgiving service marks the start of a broader roadmap to restore civilian governance in Rivers State after months of political unrest and military-led administration.
Vice Admiral Ibas Declares Presidential Mandate Fulfilled, Begins Rivers State Transition
