PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria — Rivers State Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), has issued a two-week deadline for all 23 local government area (LGA) administrators in the state to submit detailed developmental plans for their jurisdictions, in anticipation of the passage of the state’s proposed N1.48 trillion appropriation bill.
Ibas gave the directive on Friday, May 23, 2025, at the closing ceremony of a four-day transformational leadership training workshop in Port Harcourt, organised in collaboration with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).
The workshop was attended by permanent secretaries, senior government officers, LGA administrators, and directors across various ministries.
The development plans are expected to align with the Rivers State Appropriation Bill, which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted to the National Assembly on Thursday, May 22, 2025.
The bill outlines major investments in infrastructure (N324 billion), health (N166 billion), education, agriculture, and social welfare (N75 billion combined).
“To deliver the greatest impact, a careful needs assessment, planning, budgeting and deliberate efforts at monitoring and evaluation are essential,” Ibas told the gathering.
“Go back to your various local government areas and draw up strategic plans for targeted high-impact projects and initiatives based on the specific needs of the communities you serve and send to me within two weeks from today, for consideration and approval.”
The administrator also empowered the state’s Auditor-General to intensify oversight of LGA fund utilisation.
“The Auditor-General will be fully empowered to monitor closely the application of the resources that are being remitted to the various Local Government Councils,” Ibas stated.
“The people of Rivers State must get value for every kobo provided.”
Emphasising the ethical demands of public service, Ibas urged government officials to act with integrity, vision, and a sense of purpose.
“Public service is not a job. It is a calling. It demands discipline, integrity, and vision. Let us serve not for applause, but for legacy,” he said.
In addition, Ibas addressed the poor working conditions at the Rivers State Secretariat, following a personal inspection of the facility.
“From erratic power supply, non-functional elevators, unsanitary conditions, to the lack of work tools, it was a sobering experience,” he said.
“We cannot demand excellence from our workforce while neglecting the very basics.”
He announced plans to rehabilitate the state secretariat in phases and promised to improve workers’ welfare and the broader work environment.
“God willing, I will ensure that your work environment reflects the respect and dignity your service deserves,” he added.
