We’re Setting the Pace for Good Governance in Rivers – Ibas

Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has declared that his administration is laying the groundwork for lasting good governance in the state, anchored on institutional strength, public service reform, and continuous capacity development.

Ibas, appointed by President Bola Tinubu in March following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara amid rising political tensions, made the statement on Monday while declaring open a four-day Transformational Leadership Training Workshop in Port Harcourt.

The workshop, themed “Transformational Leadership for Sustainable Development”, is organised by the Rivers State Government in collaboration with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), and brings together Permanent Secretaries, Local Government Administrators, and Directors across state ministries.

Addressing participants, Ibas underscored the significance of the training in repositioning the public sector to deliver on the evolving needs of citizens in a dynamic governance environment.

“This administration is committed to building strong institutions, promoting efficiency, and fostering a results-driven public service,” he said.

“We are laying the foundation for a culture of good governance—one that will serve not just the present generation but also those to come.”

He noted that the purpose of the programme extended beyond system improvement, aiming instead to spark a fundamental cultural shift within the state’s administrative structure.

“This training is designed to equip you with the tools and insights necessary to lead through complexity, champion reforms, strengthen local government autonomy, and deliver meaningful results to our communities. I urge you to embrace it fully with open minds and a clear commitment to translate learning into action,” Ibas added.

Emphasising the need for continuous development within the civil service, Ibas stressed that regular and targeted training was essential to break cycles of inefficiency and stagnation in governance.

Also speaking at the event, Director-General of NIPSS, Professor Ayo Omotayo, described the training theme as both timely and strategic, especially in light of the state’s current developmental ambitions.

“This course is meticulously designed to bridge leadership gaps and equip participants with contemporary strategies for collaborative governance,” Omotayo said.

“We commend the Rivers State Government for its commitment to sustainable economic growth, infrastructural renewal, and social development—all of which require leadership excellence at all levels.”