Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), a distinguished former chief of naval staff, has been appointed as the interim administrator of Rivers State following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency. This decision comes as part of a broader political response to ongoing challenges in the state.
Born on September 27, 1960, in Nko, Cross River State, Ibas boasts nearly four decades of experience in the Nigerian Navy. He served as the 22nd Chief of Naval Staff from July 13, 2015, until January 29, 2021, and has also held the position of Nigeria’s ambassador to Ghana.
In his address to the nation, President Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state house of assembly for six months due to political turmoil in Rivers State.
Ibas’s educational background includes attending the Nigerian Defence Academy, where he joined the 26 Regular Course and was commissioned as a sub-lieutenant on January 1, 1983. His military training has taken him around the globe, including institutions in India, the United States, and Pakistan.
Throughout his career, Ibas has held various significant positions within the Nigerian Navy, including commanding officer of the Naval Air Base in Ojo and chief of logistics. His leadership capabilities were recognized when he was appointed as the chief of naval staff in 2015.
As the interim administrator, Ibas will not have the authority to create new laws but can implement necessary regulations, pending approval from the Federal Executive Council.
On a personal note, Ibas is married to Theresa Ibas and is a father of three. He enjoys reading, watching documentaries, and playing golf.
As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $5 million, although this figure is not officially verified.
#IbokEteIbas #RiversState #NigerianNavy #BolaTinubu #StateOfEmergency #NigerianPolitics #Leadership #Military
