Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas is a seasoned naval officer and diplomat who has been appointed as the Administrator of Rivers State following the declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, 2025.
Born on September 27, 1960, in Nko, Cross River State, Ibas has had a distinguished naval career spanning over four decades ¹.Ibas’ educational background is impressive, having attended prestigious institutions such as the Nigerian Defence Academy, Hope Waddell Training Institute, and the School of Basic Studies in Ogoja.
He also holds a master’s degree in Defence and Strategic Studies from Quaid-i-Azam University in Islamabad, Pakistan. Throughout his career, Ibas has held key positions in the Nigerian Navy, including serving aboard several naval vessels, commanding the Nigerian Navy Underwater Warfare School, and later becoming the Chief of Naval Staff in 2015. He has also served in strategic roles such as Naval Provost Marshal, Chief of Administration at Naval Headquarters, and Navy Secretary. After his retirement from the navy, Ibas was appointed Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ghana in 2021, where he played a crucial role in strengthening regional security and diplomatic relations.
On a personal note, Ibas is married to Barrister Theresa Ibas, and they have children. He enjoys reading, watching documentaries, and playing golf. With his extensive experience in security and administration, Ibas’ appointment as the Administrator of Rivers State signals a decisive move by the federal government to restore stability amid ongoing political tensions.
