Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd.) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has inaugurated the reconstituted boards of four key state institutions, calling on members to uphold discipline, integrity, competence, and dedication in the discharge of their duties. The ceremony, held Monday at Government House, Port Harcourt, marks a major step toward stabilizing governance and strengthening institutional effectiveness in the state.
The newly constituted boards include the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), the Civil Service Commission, the Local Government Service Commission, and the Primary Health Care Management Board.
Upholding Credibility in Local Elections
Addressing members of RSIEC, led by Chairman Dr. Michael Ekpai Odey, Administrator Ibas stressed the importance of organizing free, fair, and transparent local government elections. He cautioned against bias, favoritism, and external interference, emphasizing that public trust in the democratic process hinges on the commission’s professionalism and impartiality.
Driving Civil Service Reform
For the Civil Service Commission, chaired by Dr. Livinus Bariki, the Administrator emphasized the need for merit-based recruitment, training, and promotion across the public sector. He announced ongoing reforms aimed at standardizing procedures and digitizing operations within Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). A committee has also been set up to revamp the overall public service framework for improved efficiency.
Strengthening Local Governance
The Local Government Service Commission, under the leadership of Mr. Isreal Amadi, was charged with ensuring discipline, professionalism, and effective grassroots service delivery. Administrator Ibas urged the commission to champion reforms that promote competence and reduce political interference in local government administration.
Revamping Primary Healthcare
Dr. Dawari George, Chairman of the Primary Health Care Management Board, alongside Executive Director Dr. Chituru Adiele, received a clear mandate to improve healthcare delivery across Rivers State’s 23 LGAs. The Administrator highlighted the urgent need to strengthen maternal and child health, immunization coverage, malaria control, rural outreach services, and the referral system. He also stressed the importance of data-driven planning and incentivizing rural health workers.
Support and Accountability
While assuring all the boards of continued government support, including funding, Vice Admiral Ibas made it clear that performance and accountability would be closely monitored. He urged the newly sworn-in members to serve with patriotism, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, stating: “The future of Rivers State depends on institutions that work—and that begins with each of you.”
