By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has named Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) as the new Administrator of Rivers State, following the declaration of a state of emergency in the state.
The appointment was announced during a national broadcast on Tuesday as part of the measures to restore order and governance in the state.
The President explained that the Administrator would oversee the affairs of the state during the emergency period, while the judicial arm would continue to function in line with its constitutional responsibilities.
Early Life
Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, born on September 27, 1960, in Nko, Cross River State, is a renowned Nigerian naval officer and diplomat. He served as the 22nd Chief of Naval Staff of the Nigerian Navy from July 2015 until his retirement in January 2021. In recognition of his service, he was appointed Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ghana in 2021. On March 18, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed him as the administrator of Rivers State.
Academic Background and Military Instruction
Ibas began his early education at Nko Primary School before completing it at Big Qua Primary School, Calabar, in 1971. He continued at Hope Waddell Training Institute (1972–1976) and later attended the School of Basic Studies, Ogoja (1977–1979). His naval career commenced at the Nigerian Defence Academy on June 20, 1979, as part of the 26th Regular Course, leading to his commission as a sub-lieutenant on January 1, 1983. He pursued extensive military training throughout his career.
Illustrious Service in the Nigerian Navy
Vice Admiral Ibas held numerous key positions in the Nigerian Navy. As a midshipman, he served aboard NNS Ruwan Yaro, NNS Obuma, and NNS Aradu. After his commission as a sub-lieutenant, he was a watchkeeping officer on NNS Ayam and NNS Ekpe. Between 1993 and 1996, he served as the executive officer of NNS Siri, NNS Ekun, and NNS Ambe.
He later commanded the Nigerian Navy Underwater Warfare School (1997–1998) and Forward Operating Base Ibaka (1998–2000). Excelling in the Senior Staff Course, he was appointed a directing staff at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji (2000–2002), and later served as Director, Maritime Warfare (2009–2010) and Deputy Commandant (2014).
He also held positions as the naval provost marshal (2003–2004), principal staff officer to the Chief of Naval Staff (2004–2005), and command operations officer, Western Naval Command (2006). He commanded the Naval Air Base, Ojo (2006–2009) and later became chief staff officer, Naval Training Command (2010–2011), chief of administration, Naval Headquarters (2011–2012), and Navy Secretary (2012–2013). Before becoming Chief of Naval Staff in 2015, he commanded the Western Naval Command (2013–2014) and served as chief of logistics (2014) and GMD/CEO of Nigerian Navy Holdings (2014).
Diplomatic Engagements and Government Service
Following his retirement, Ibas transitioned into diplomacy, serving as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ghana from 2021. His expertise in security, strategic relations, and international diplomacy positioned him as a key figure in Nigeria’s foreign service. In March 2025, he was appointed administrator of Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Private Life and Interests
Vice Admiral Ibas is married to Barrister Theresa Ibas, and they have children. Outside his professional career, he enjoys reading, watching documentaries, and playing golf.
Vanguard