PROFILE: Meet New Rivers Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas

Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas CFR is a seasoned military officer and former Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) with a distinguished career in the Nigerian Navy. Born on September 27, 1960, Ibas served as the 22nd Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021, overseeing key maritime security operations and defense strategies.

With over four decades of military experience, he played a significant role in Nigeria’s fight against piracy, oil theft, and maritime crimes, particularly in the Niger Delta region. His leadership focused on strengthening the navy’s operational capacity, acquiring modern vessels, and enhancing coastal security.

Ibas' appointment as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State follows President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency amid the ongoing political crisis. While his military background suggests a mandate to restore order, political observers speculate that his ties to former Governor Nyesom Wike could influence his approach to governance in Rivers State.

As he steps into this new role, all eyes are on Vice Admiral Ibas to see how he will navigate the political tensions in Rivers and ensure stability in the oil-rich state.

FULL PROFILE

PROFILE: Meet Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas

Full Name: Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas CFR

Date of Birth: September 27, 1960

State of Origin: Cross River State

Rank: Vice Admiral (Retired)

Former Position: 22nd Chief of Naval Staff (2015–2021)

Current Position: Sole Administrator of Rivers State (2025)

Early Life and Education

Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas was born on September 27, 1960, in Cross River State, Nigeria. He joined the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a member of the 26th Regular Course and was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant in 1983 into the Nigerian Navy.

Throughout his career, he pursued extensive military and professional training, both locally and internationally. He attended various elite naval and defense institutions, equipping him with expertise in maritime security, strategic leadership, and naval operations.

Military Career

• Key Positions Held

• Vice Admiral Ibas rose through the ranks in the Nigerian Navy, serving in various capacities, including:

• Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) – Oversaw naval missions and security operations.

• Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command – Led naval security in the Western region.

• Chief of Logistics, Naval Headquarters – Managed naval fleet acquisitions and operational logistics.

• Chief of Administration, Naval Headquarters – Supervised personnel and resource administration.

• Chief of Naval Staff (2015–2021) – As the 22nd Chief of Naval Staff, he was Nigeria’s top naval officer under President Muhammadu Buhari.

Achievements as Chief of Naval Staff

• Enhanced maritime security by launching new naval operations to combat piracy, oil theft, and illegal fishing in the Gulf of Guinea.

• Led fleet expansion efforts, acquiring new warships, patrol boats, and drones to modernize the Nigerian Navy.

• Strengthened naval intelligence gathering and surveillance through the use of advanced technology and satellite monitoring.

• Played a key role in counter-terrorism operations and securing Nigeria’s territorial waters.

• Expanded international military cooperation, partnering with global naval forces for joint exercises and security initiatives.

Appointment as Rivers State Sole Administrator

Following the political crisis in Rivers State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency and appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as Sole Administrator to restore order.

His appointment is seen as a strategic move due to his military background, experience in crisis management, and understanding of security dynamics in the Niger Delta region. However, political analysts are debating whether his ties to former Governor Nyesom Wike influenced his selection.

Key Responsibilities as Rivers Sole Administrator

• Restoring peace and stability amid the ongoing political tensions.

• Overseeing governance and administration in the state during the emergency period.

• Ensuring security and law enforcement in coordination with federal authorities.

• Managing oil and maritime security in Rivers State, a key economic hub.

Controversy and Political Implications

Ibas' appointment has sparked debates, with critics questioning whether the move is politically motivated. Some believe he was strategically chosen due to his Niger Delta roots and alleged connections to Wike, a major political figure in Rivers State.

At the same time, his military background and experience in handling security challenges could make him an effective stabilizing force in the state.

Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas brings a wealth of military and administrative experience to his new role as Rivers State Sole Administrator. With the state at the center of political turmoil, his leadership will be critical in restoring order and setting the course for governance during the state of emergency.

His tenure will be closely watched to see how he navigates the political landscape, security challenges, and governance expectations in one of Nigeria’s most strategically important states.