10 Things to Know About Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, Sole Administrator of Rivers State

Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd) CFR psc+ GSS AM ndc MSc is a seasoned military officer and former Chief of the Naval Staff of Nigeria. Born on September 27, 1960, he has had a distinguished career in the Nigerian Navy, serving in various strategic roles before retiring in 2021. His expertise spans naval warfare, logistics, and defense strategy.

In 2025, he was appointed as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following a state of emergency declaration in the state. Here are ten key things to know about him:

1. Former Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS)

Vice Admiral Ibas served as the 22nd Chief of the Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021, overseeing Nigeria’s naval operations and maritime security efforts.

2. A Distinguished Military Career

He enlisted in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1979 as part of the 26 Regular Course and was commissioned as a sub-lieutenant on January 1, 1983. His career spanned four decades in various naval commands.

3. Extensive Military Education and Training

Ibas attended prestigious military institutions worldwide, including the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (Jaji, Nigeria), the National Defence College (Pakistan), and the United States Marine Corps University (Quantico, Virginia).

4. Expertise in Underwater Warfare

He specialized in underwater warfare after completing an advanced course at the Nigerian Navy’s Underwater Warfare School in 1995, which played a crucial role in shaping his naval career.

5. Command Experience in the Nigerian Navy

He held several key leadership roles, including Commander of the Naval Air Base, Ojo, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, and Chief of Logistics at the Naval Headquarters.

6. Experience in Defense Strategy and Policy

He earned a Master’s degree in Defense and Strategic Studies from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan, strengthening his expertise in military strategy and national security policymaking.

7. Appointed Rivers State Administrator in 2025

On March 18, 2025, President Tinubu appointed him as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State to oversee governance following a state of emergency declaration.

8. Recipient of National and Military Honors

Ibas has been awarded numerous accolades, including the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), Forces Service Star, Meritorious Service Star, and Distinguished Service Star.

9. Member of Prestigious Professional Bodies

He is a member of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) and the Nigerian Institute of Management, among other organizations.

10. Family and Personal Life

He is married to Theresa Ibas, and they have three children. Outside of his professional life, he enjoys various hobbies that complement his disciplined military background.

Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas remains a highly respected figure in Nigeria’s military and governance landscape, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role as Rivers State Administrator.