Barikui Felix
Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), has called on Rivers people, especially political leaders, to embrace forgiveness, reconciliation, and trust to foster enduring peace and development in the state.
Ibas made the appeal during a Special Public Lecture held at the Government House in Port Harcourt to commemorate the 58th anniversary of the creation of Rivers State.
The lecture, “Rivers State, Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow: Search for Sustainable Peace and Opportunities for Development,” highlighted the state’s remarkable journey and the urgent need to overcome political divisions threatening its progress.
Vice Admiral Ibas reflected on Rivers State’s historic struggle for identity and self-determination since its creation in 1967. It noted its emergence as Nigeria’s second-largest economy with a $28.4 billion GDP and over 40% of Nigeria’s onshore crude oil production. Despite these achievements, he lamented that political conflicts have strained institutions, eroded trust, and undermined governance.
“This is not the Rivers State we dreamt of. It is not the legacy our forebears fought to build, and it must not be the path we continue to walk,” he declared.
The Sole Administrator attributed the current political crisis to the failure of elites, faith leaders, and elders who either took sides or fueled tensions.
He emphasized that differences can be resolved through mature dialogue and a shared commitment to peace.
Ibas praised President Bola Tinubu for intervening to prevent anarchy and appointing an administration tasked with restoring democratic institutions, justice, and order—a mandate he vowed to fulfil.
He further hinted that Rivers State boasts a thriving agricultural sector and growing investments in tourism and manufacturing, stressing that sustainable progress depends on collective efforts toward reconciliation.
“We must rebuild Rivers State on the pillars of peace, unity, and shared prosperity,” he urged, highlighting the need to secure a brighter future for Rivers children, whose aspirations depend on stability and access to quality education.
The guest lecturer, Prof. Godwin Okon of the Rivers State University, while giving insights on Rivers’ economic journey, traced the state’s evolution from a public-sector-driven economy to a dynamic public-private partnership model, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy.
Earlier in his remarks, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, celebrated the resilience of Rivers people and their unwavering commitment to a prosperous future.
He corroborated the position of the State Sole Administrator on his message on the state’s 58th anniversary, describing it as a clear one, stating that only forgiveness, trust, and unity can unlock the state’s full potential.
