The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd.), announced that preparations are underway for the state’s 2025 budget, focusing on key areas such as healthcare, education, agriculture, infrastructure, and job creation.
Ibas made the announcement on Thursday during a meeting with a delegation from the Rivers State National Assembly caucus, led by Senator Barinada Mpigi, at Government House in Port Harcourt. He noted that following the Supreme Court’s ruling on the state’s budget, efforts have been fast-tracked to create a new appropriation bill that reflects the government’s commitment to social services and economic growth.
The delegation included Senator Allwell Onyesoh, Minority Leader of the House of Representatives Kingsley Chinda, Dumnamene Dekor, Solomon Bob, Cyril Godwin Hart, Blessing Amadi, Felix Nwaeke, Kelechi Nwogu, and Victor Obuzor.
Ibas emphasized his dedication to restoring law and order since assuming office, highlighting that with support from security agencies, an environment has been created where Rivers residents feel safe and valued. He stressed his commitment to making Rivers a model of peace, with a stable economy that allows citizens to pursue their livelihoods without fear or harassment.
“We are focused on both peace-building and the economic development of Rivers State,” Ibas said. “After the Supreme Court ruling on the state’s budget, we moved quickly to create a new budget that reflects our focus on healthcare, education, social services, and infrastructure development.”
He added that the budget is being finalized with a focus on job creation and investment in sectors like agriculture, infrastructure, and technology. “We understand the urgency, and we are committed to implementing these initiatives without delay,” Ibas said.
Ibas also stressed the importance of collaboration with legislators, acknowledging their key role as representatives of Rivers State in the National Assembly. “Your partnership is crucial to ensuring Rivers State’s progress and lasting peace,” he told the delegation.
He discussed the challenges faced by Rivers State, including the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu, and emphasized the use of dialogue, community engagement, and reconciliation to build trust and foster peace. He commended the people of Rivers for their resilience and patience in restoring the state to a path of peace and respect for the law.
Ibas assured the delegation that his administration remains committed to achieving lasting peace in the state. “We have prioritized community engagement as a core strategy. Dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusivity are key to building trust among our people. Together, we are ensuring that peace becomes a permanent feature of our state.”
Senator Mpigi, speaking on behalf of the delegation, praised Ibas for his efforts and assured their support for initiatives aimed at stabilizing and developing the state.