Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — In a move poised to reshape Rivers State’s administrative capacity and workforce productivity, the State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has announced a phased rehabilitation of the Rivers State Secretariat complex, identifying infrastructure renewal as a crucial investment in governance efficiency.
Speaking at the close of a 4-day Transformational Leadership Training Workshop organized in partnership with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, Ibas said deteriorating work conditions within the Secretariat were undermining public sector performance.
The Administrator announced that the rehabilitation would commence in phases, beginning immediately, and would focus on transforming the Secretariat into a “modern, efficient, and dignified workspace.”
He also promised a review of civil service welfare policies to better motivate staff.
“During a recent inspection of the State Secretariat, I took a deliberate walk, floor by floor, to assess working conditions firsthand. The challenges, erratic power supply, non-functional elevators, unsanitary facilities, and inadequate work tools, were sobering. We cannot demand peak performance while neglecting the basics.
“God willing, I will ensure that your work environment reflects the respect and dignity your service deserves,” he affirmed.
The workshop trained Permanent Secretaries, Local Government Administrators, and senior officials in policy leadership and strategic governance. It forms part of a wider reform effort to elevate the operational competence of the civil service.
Vice Admiral Ibas urged Local Government Council Administrators to apply their training immediately by submitting strategic development plans tailored to community needs.
“I urge you to return to your councils, conduct detailed needs assessments, and submit strategic plans for high-impact projects within two weeks,” he said, adding that spending will be strictly monitored.
“The Auditor-General for Local Governments will ensure maximum value for every kobo spent.”
Also speaking, Acting Head of Service, Dr. Iyingi Brown, hailed the leadership development effort as historic, noting it was the first of its kind for civil servants in the state.
“This investment in leadership development will reflect in the quality of governance and public administration across the state,” she said.
The Rivers State Government further announced its next steps in the reform agenda to include, “immediate commencement of phased rehabilitation at the State Secretariat. Submission of strategic development plans by Local Government Administrators within two weeks. Continued training and a comprehensive review of public service welfare.”
The initiative signals Rivers State’s intent to not only modernize public infrastructure but also institutionalize a culture of performance, transparency, and citizen-focused governance.
