Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), the Rivers State Administrator, has appointed new Sole Administrators for the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state. The appointments, which were announced on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, are seen as crucial for improving the administration of the local governments, particularly in the wake of previous challenges faced by the state.
The announcement, made public through a statement signed by Prof. Ibibia Worika, the Secretary to the State Government, has garnered attention for its implications on governance and electoral processes in the state.
Among those appointed as Sole Administrators are seasoned professionals and individuals with experience in governance at the local level. The newly appointed administrators include:
– Mr. Okroiyobi Animete for Abua/Odual LGA
– Mr. Goodluck Iheancho for Ahoada East
– Mr. Promise Jacob for Ahoada West
– Mr. Tamunotonye Peters for Akuku Toru
– Mrs. Atajit Frances-Andoni for Andoni LGA
– Mr. Ibiaquve Charles for Asari-Toru
– Mr. Kingsley Banogo for Bonny
– Mr. Sokari Francis for Degema
– Mrs. Gloria Obo-Dibiah for Eleme
– Mr. Franklin Ajinwon for Emohua
– Mr. Onyenachi Nwankwor for Etche
– Mr. Gospel Kpee for Gokana
– Mr. Isaiah Nobuawu for Ikwerre
In addition, other LGAs also received new appointments, including Mr. Baridum Nwibere for Khana, Mr. Clifford Walter for Obio/Akpor, and Mr. Chukwuma Aje for Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni. The appointments also extended to Mr. Eliel Owubokir for Ogu/Bolo, Mr. Thompson Isodike for Okrika, Mr. Manager Wala for Omuma, and Mr. Fred Apiafi for Opobo/Nkoro.
Also, Mr. Eletuoo Ihenacho has been assigned to Oyigbo, Mr. Sam Kalagbor for Port Harcourt, and Mr. Nuka Gbopah for Tai LGA.
This comprehensive list of appointments highlights the diverse nature of the newly appointed administrators, who are expected to bring their varied experiences to their respective LGAs. The appointments are likely to have a significant impact on the delivery of government services, addressing local governance issues, and implementing state policies at the grassroots level.
In addition to the appointments of the Sole Administrators, Ibas also approved the reconstitution of various boards of agencies, commissions, and parastatals in the state. These bodies, which were previously suspended, are now being revamped to enhance their efficiency in carrying out their duties.
The reconstitution aims to ensure that these agencies, which play vital roles in the state’s economy, social services, and infrastructure development, operate more effectively. The appointment of new leadership within these commissions is expected to bring fresh perspectives and invigorate the efforts toward achieving the administration’s goals.
Another significant development in the announcement was the appointment of Mr. Michael Odeyas the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). His appointment comes at a critical time, as the state prepares for upcoming local elections and possibly other electoral processes. Odey, who brings with him vast experience in electoral administration, is expected to oversee a transparent and credible electoral process in the state.
Additionally, six new members were appointed to serve on the RSIEC, further strengthening the commission’s capacity to conduct free and fair elections. The new members are:
– Mr. Lazarus Torbira
– Mr. Arthur Nwafor
– Mr. Godfrey Mbgudiogha
– Ms. Joyce Akaninwor
– Ms. Olive Brue
– Mr. Chidi Halliday
These appointments reflect Ibas’ commitment to ensuring that the RSIEC functions optimally, upholding democratic values and ensuring that the electoral process is credible, transparent, and free from manipulation.
Local government areas (LGAs) in Nigeria have long been seen as the closest tier of government to the people. As such, the Sole Administrators appointed by Ibas will play a key role in ensuring that government policies are implemented effectively at the grassroots level. Their appointments come at a time when many Nigerians have expressed concerns over the delivery of essential services at the local level, especially in areas such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
The Sole Administrators will be expected to engage with the communities in their respective LGAs, understand their needs, and prioritize the development of key areas that will enhance the standard of living for the people. They will also play a crucial role in the administration’s efforts to improve governance and accountability in the state.
The appointment of the new Sole Administrators, along with the reconstitution of state agencies and the appointment of the RSIEC chairman and members, is a significant step towards revitalizing governance in Rivers State. The administration of Vice Admiral Ibas is focused on ensuring that local governments are properly run and that electoral processes in the state are credible and transparent.
This move is also seen as part of a larger strategy to streamline the governance structure of the state, enabling more efficient service delivery and addressing any issues that may have plagued local government administration in the past.
