Following the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.) as the state’s administrator for six months.
Here are key facts about the new administrator:
- Former Chief of Naval Staff
Ibas served as Nigeria’s Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021, overseeing key naval operations and maritime security initiatives. - Native of Cross River State
Born and raised in Cross River State, he had his early education there before pursuing a military career. - Military Training at NDA
He joined the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1979 and steadily rose through the ranks to the peak of his career in the Nigerian Navy. - Professional Affiliations
He is a member of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) and the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM). - National Honour Recipient
In recognition of his service, former President Muhammadu Buhari conferred on him the national honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) in 2022.
Ibas now faces the task of restoring stability and governance in Rivers State during the emergency period.
