Port Harcourt – Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has issued a passionate appeal to political leaders and citizens to embrace forgiveness, reconciliation, and trust to salvage the state from escalating political tensions and secure its economic future.
The call was made during a Special Public Lecture marking the 58th Anniversary of Rivers State, held at the Government House Banquet Hall in Port Harcourt. The event, themed “Rivers State, Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow: Search for Sustainable Peace and Opportunities for Development,” brought together stakeholders to reflect on the state’s legacy and pressing challenges.
Vice Admiral Ibas celebrated Rivers State’s remarkable economic achievements, including its $28.4 billion GDP—second only to Lagos—and its contribution of over 40% of Nigeria’s onshore crude oil production. However, he lamented that political divisions have crippled governance, strained institutions, and threatened the state’s stability.
“Today, as we mark this milestone, we must confront the sobering reality: Our beloved state is bogged down by political differences that threaten peace and progress. This is not the Rivers State our forebears envisioned,” he declared.
The Administrator blamed the crisis on failed leadership, accusing political elites, faith leaders, and elders of either taking sides or fueling conflicts rather than mediating solutions. He urged a return to mature dialogue and collective responsibility to resolve differences.
He also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s intervention, which averted further chaos by appointing an administration to restore democratic institutions, justice, and order—a mandate he vowed to uphold.
While Rivers State remains Nigeria’s economic powerhouse due to oil, Vice Admiral Ibas highlighted progress in agriculture (cassava, palm oil, rice production), as well as emerging opportunities in tourism and manufacturing. However, he stressed that lasting growth depends on peace.
“We must rebuild Rivers State on the pillars of unity and shared prosperity. Our children deserve a future free from strife, with access to quality education and opportunities,” he said.
Guest lecturer Prof. Godwin Okon of Rivers State University analyzed the state’s economic journey—from a public-sector-driven economy to a private-sector-led model, and now a public-private partnership framework. He emphasized that sustaining Rivers’ economic dominance requires political stability and inclusive policies.
SSG Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, in his opening remarks, praised the resilience of Rivers people and their determination to build a prosperous future despite challenges.
As the state celebrates 58 years, the message is clear: Political reconciliation is non-negotiable for progress. The government urges all stakeholders—politicians, traditional rulers, youth, and civil society—to prioritize peace and work together for a stable, thriving Rivers State.
Created in 1967, Rivers State is a key economic hub in Nigeria, rich in oil and gas resources, agriculture, and a growing industrial sector. It remains pivotal to Nigeria’s economic growth and development.
