The Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has emphasized his administration’s commitment to establishing strong governance structures through institutional reforms, an efficient public service, and continuous capacity development.
Ibas made the declaration on Monday in Port Harcourt while inaugurating a four-day Transformational Leadership Training Workshop for Sustainable Development.
The program, organized by the Rivers State Government in collaboration with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, brought together Permanent Secretaries, Local Government Administrators, and Directors from various state ministries.
“This administration is committed to building strong institutions, promoting efficiency, and fostering a results-driven public service,” Ibas stated. “We are laying the foundation for a culture of good governance—one that will serve not just the present generation but also those to come.”
The retired naval officer explained that the workshop goes beyond systemic improvements, aiming to instill a new culture of excellence, accountability, and innovation within the public sector.
“This training is designed to equip you with the tools and insights necessary to lead through complexity, champion reforms, strengthen local government autonomy, and deliver meaningful results to our communities. I urge you to embrace it fully with open minds and a clear commitment to translate learning into action,” he told participants.
Ibas stressed that consistent, targeted training remains critical for overcoming governance stagnation and enabling public servants to adapt to evolving challenges while improving service delivery.
NIPSS Director-General Prof. Ayo Omotayo described the workshop’s theme, “Transformational Leadership for Sustainable Development,” as both timely and strategic.
“This course is meticulously designed to bridge leadership gaps and equip participants with contemporary strategies for collaborative governance,” Omotayo said. “We commend the Rivers State Government for its commitment to sustainable economic growth, infrastructural renewal, and social development—all of which require leadership excellence at all levels.”
The leadership program represents part of broader efforts to institutionalize administrative reforms in Rivers State, ensuring long-term governance sustainability beyond individual tenures.