Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, the newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has reaffirmed his commitment to restoring peace and stability in Port Harcourt, the state’s capital and Nigeria’s oil industry hub. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, March 20, at 1:10 PM WAT, Ibas emphasized his determination to address the underlying tensions in the city, stating, “Port Harcourt is my city, everything appears calm, though I know that the situation is there, we just want Port Harcourt to get back to where it has always been.
Ibas, a decorated former Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021, was appointed by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025, following a declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The appointment comes amid escalating security and political challenges in the region, including a recent explosion along the trans-Niger pipeline, which has heightened concerns about instability in the oil-rich Niger Delta. The state, known for its economic significance and strategic location along the Atlantic Ocean, has long grappled with issues such as electoral violence, political rivalry, and environmental degradation linked to oil activities.
The Administrator’s remarks, captured in a video shared by News Central TV on X, reflect a proactive approach to governance as Rivers State navigates a complex political landscape. Reports from organizations like the Fund for Peace and the U.S. Institute of Peace have previously highlighted Port Harcourt’s vulnerability to electoral and communal violence, underscoring the urgency of Ibas’s mission. His extensive military background and leadership experience are seen as critical assets in addressing these challenges and delivering on the expectations of the state’s residents.
Local reactions on social media have been mixed, with some expressing optimism about Ibas’s leadership, while others remain skeptical about the broader security situation. As Rivers State moves forward, Ibas’s efforts to stabilize Port Harcourt will be closely watched by stakeholders both within Nigeria and internationally, given the city’s pivotal role in the nation’s oil economy.