Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas Appointed Administrator of Rivers State

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (retd.) as the Administrator of Rivers State. The appointment, announced on March 18, 2025, comes amid the state of emergency declared in Rivers.

Distinguished Naval and Diplomatic Career

Born on September 27, 1960, in Nko, Cross River State, Ibas is a seasoned naval officer and diplomat. He served as the 22nd Chief of Naval Staff from July 2015 to January 2021 before being appointed as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ghana in 2021.

Education and Military Training

Ibas began his education at Nko Primary School and Big Qua Primary School, Calabar, before proceeding to Hope Waddell Training Institute (1972-1976) and the School of Basic Studies, Ogoja (1977-1979). His military career started at the Nigerian Defence Academy on June 20, 1979, as part of the 26th Regular Course, leading to his commission as a sub-lieutenant on January 1, 1983.

Key Military Positions

Throughout his naval career, Ibas held various high-ranking positions, including:

Commander, Nigerian Navy Underwater Warfare School (1997–1998)
Commander, Forward Operating Base Ibaka (1998–2000)
Directing Staff, Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji (2000–2002)
Naval Provost Marshal (2003–2004)
Chief of Logistics, Naval Headquarters (2014)
22nd Chief of Naval Staff (2015–2021)

Diplomatic Service and Personal Life

Following his retirement, Ibas transitioned into diplomacy, serving as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ghana from 2021. His expertise in security and strategic relations positioned him for further national service.

Married to Barrister Theresa Ibas, he is a devoted family man who enjoys reading, watching documentaries, and playing golf.

With his appointment as Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas is set to play a crucial role in stabilizing the state amid its current political crisis.