Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Administrator of Rivers State, has reached out to the Senate requesting legislative backing to advance his administration’s development agenda. This appeal was made during a courtesy visit by the Senate Committee on Works to Government House in Port Harcourt on Friday, April 4, 2025.
Focus on Infrastructure and Security
During the meeting, Ibas emphasized the critical importance of uninterrupted socioeconomic activities and key infrastructure development to enhance economic growth and improve living standards for Rivers residents. He highlighted his administration’s dual focus on tackling insecurity and addressing the state’s pressing infrastructural challenges.
“We are in the process of putting together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services, as well as the continued infrastructural development of our state,” Ibas stated. “We have worked diligently to ensure that this process is transparent, inclusive, and most importantly, expediting.”
The Administrator elaborated that the forthcoming budget prioritizes job creation and investments in key sectors including agriculture, infrastructure, and technology.
Call for Federal Support
Ibas stressed the strategic importance of Rivers State to Nigeria’s economy, describing it as “the treasure base of the nation and a key economic hub.” He noted that the state hosts vital national infrastructure including roads, bridges, sea and air ports, oil and gas facilities, a petrochemical company, refineries, and other essential installations.
However, he acknowledged challenges in maintaining and expanding this infrastructure due to various factors, including resource constraints. The Administrator urged the Senate delegation to facilitate federal funding and expedite national projects within Rivers State.
Senate Committee’s Response
The Senate delegation was led by Senator Barinada Mpigi of Rivers South-East, who chairs the Senate Committee on Works. The senators were accompanied by a team from Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, headed by the company’s Managing Director, Dr. Peer Lubasch.
Senator Mpigi reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to supporting development efforts in Rivers State. He revealed that the committee was visiting to inspect ongoing federal projects, including the Bodo-Bonny Link Road and the Coastal Road project, which has reached 40% completion.
Administration’s Progress
Ibas, who assumed office on March 20, 2025, informed the delegation that his administration has prioritized restoring peace and stability across the state. “We have engaged with key stakeholders, including civil society organizations, traditional rulers, and government officials, to rebuild trust and foster a conducive environment for investment and development,” he noted.
The Administrator concluded by emphasizing the need for continued partnership with the Senate, describing their support as “critical to our success in ensuring that Rivers State remains on the path of progress and enduring peace for future generations.”
Senator Mpigi urged the Administrator to maintain focus on security and infrastructure development, ensuring the protection of lives and property across Rivers State.
