Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has reaffirmed his commitment to restoring democratic institutions, fostering youth participation, and championing sustainable peace across the state. Speaking during a strategic engagement with youth leaders at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Ibas outlined a multi-pronged approach aimed at rebuilding trust, enhancing civic participation, and accelerating developmental goals within the embattled oil-rich state.
This meeting with stakeholders, led by the Rivers State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Nwisabari Bani, forms part of Ibas’ broader consultative strategy since assuming his interim leadership role following the political crisis that engulfed the state. The administrator emphasized the need for inclusive governance, stressing that every Rivers citizen—regardless of political leaning—must have a voice in shaping the state’s democratic future.
Speaking on the restoration of democratic processes, Ibas reiterated that his administration’s primary mandate is to stabilise the state’s political terrain and rebuild democratic institutions that had been weakened by recent political unrest. “We will continue to prioritise the restoration of democratic institutions and make every effort to restore peace to our beloved state,” he said.
He stressed that his approach would remain neutral and guided strictly by constitutional principles. “It is important to restate my impartial stand on the political crisis that has plagued our state. I remain committed to upholding the law and ensuring that all individuals, irrespective of their political affiliations, have a voice in the future of Rivers State,” he noted.
Recognizing the crucial role of youth in societal transformation, Ibas outlined four critical areas his administration is focusing on: education, vocational skills acquisition, economic empowerment, and digital inclusion.
“First, we are investing in education to equip our youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to compete in a fast-changing world,” he stated. “Second, we’re creating pathways for vocational training to help them achieve economic independence. Third, we’re enabling access to job opportunities and encouraging entrepreneurship to transform Rivers State into an innovation hub. Lastly, we are promoting digital literacy to ensure every youth can access and benefit from the global digital economy.”
The Sole Administrator also stressed that sustainable peace in the state is linked to youth engagement and empowerment. “Youth development is not just about creating jobs; it’s about giving young people a stake in society,” he said.
Ibas disclosed that his administration is also prioritizing conflict resolution and reconciliation through continuous dialogue. He noted that his government has held series of consultations with traditional rulers, civil servants, civil society groups, and other stakeholders to chart a path forward.
“By sustaining dialogue and fostering understanding between diverse groups, we can begin to heal the wounds of the past and build a united Rivers State,” he said. “Peace-building efforts will remain central to our administration, as they form the bedrock of collective prosperity.”
Speaking on behalf of the youth, NYCN Chairman Nwisabari Bani commended Ibas for engaging with young people early in his administration. He pledged that Rivers youth would fully support his vision for peace, democratic restoration, and development.
“We appreciate your willingness to carry us along and consider us partners in progress. You have given us hope, and we will stand by you to ensure your mandate succeeds,” Bani said.
Rivers State has been in the eye of the storm due to an ongoing political impasse between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who now serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The crisis led to the dissolution of local government councils, legislative gridlocks, and unrest in several communities. President Bola Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibas as Sole Administrator to stabilize the situation and oversee a transition process aimed at re-establishing democratic norms.
Since assuming office, Ibas has repeatedly emphasized transparency, neutrality, and unity as the cornerstones of his interim government. Observers say his consultative approach and efforts to involve young people may be key to rebuilding trust and setting Rivers State on a sustainable development path.
In conclusion, Ibas’ commitment to restoring democratic institutions, fostering inclusive governance, and empowering youth signals a bold vision for a new Rivers State—one rooted in law, peace, and collective prosperity.