•Ibok-Ete Ibas
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral Ibok Ibas (retd), has announced that his administration is preparing a new state budget in response to the Supreme Court’s recent declaration.
Ibas shared this development during a meeting with a delegation from the Rivers Caucus of the National Assembly at the Government House in Port Harcourt today, reports The Nation.
Ibas revealed that the upcoming budget would prioritise key sectors, including education, healthcare, social services, and infrastructural development—areas that were also highlighted in the now-nullified Rivers State 2025 budget, which the Supreme Court had recently invalidated.
The 10-member delegation was led by Senator Barinada Mpigi, who represents the Rivers South-East Senatorial District.
Others on the delegation were Senator Allwell Onyesoh; the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Kingsley Chinda; Dumnamene Dekor, and Solomon Bob, Cyril Godwin Hart, Blessing Amadi, Felix Nwaeke, Kelechi Nwogu, and Victor Obuzor.
Ibas reportedly said: “Since the Supreme Court verdict on the state’s budget, we have acted swiftly and decided to put together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services and the continued infrastructural development.
“We have worked diligently to ensure that the process is transparent, inclusive and most importantly expedited.
“Our goal is to ensure that we do not lose any more time in making the necessary investments that will improve the lives of citizens.
“The budget, which is being finalised focuses on creating job opportunities and investing in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure and technology.
“We understand the urgency of this initiative and we are committed to ensuring that they are implemented without delay. But, we cannot do this alone.
“As I have earlier stated, we need your support as the key representatives of Rivers State in the National Assembly to help us secure the necessary resources and legislative backing to bring this initiative to fruition.
“Your partnership is critical to success in ensuring that Rivers State remains on the part of progress and enduring peace for future generations.”
Ibas said he was honoured by the visit of the caucus, saying it reflected “our shared commitments to the progress, peace and prosperity of our beloved Rivers State”.
He said: “As you all know, our state has faced difficult challenges, over the past months, especially with the declaration of State of Emergency by Mr President.
“This was a difficult but necessary measure to address the insecurity that threatens the very fabric of our communities.
“However, I am pleased to report that with the support of the Federal Government of Nigeria, security agencies and indeed, the collective will of our people, we have made notable progress in restoring peace and stability to our great state.
“Since the declaration of the State of Emergency, my administration has been resolute in ensuring that our efforts in restoring law and order are not only effective, but sustainable.
“We have worked tirelessly with the Nigerian Military, the Police and other security agencies to restore order and bring peace to the state.
“Our goal has been to create an environment where our citizens can like in safety and pursue their livelihoods without fear.
“The people of Rivers State have shown incredible resilience and patience and I assure you that we are committed to ensuring that this peace remains lasting.
“Beyond security, we have prioritised community engagements to central part of our strategy, dialogue, reconciliation and inclusivity have been key to building trust among our people.
“We are determined to strengthen the bond of unity in Rivers State and to foster environment where every citizen feels value, heard and respected.
“Together, we are making strides in ensuring that peace becomes a permanent feature of our state. However, as we continue on this part, we recognise that we cannot do it alone.
“The role of Rivers State Caucus of National Assembly is critical in helping us secure the support and cooperation necessary for the continued success of our peace initiatives.
“We are deeply grateful for the support you have provided, so far. But we must continue to work together to ensure that this process is sustained and that Rivers State remains a model of peace, unity and progress for the entire nation.
“In addition to our peace building efforts, we are also focused on the economic stability and development of Rivers State”.
