Rivers State @ 58: Ibas preaches forgiveness, reconciliation, trust

Franklin Oboh, Port Harcourt

Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, emphasized the importance of forgiveness, reconciliation, and trust in fostering enduring peace and development in the state as it marks a significant milestone.

The Administrator made this appeal during a Special Public Lecture held to commemorate the 58th Anniversary of Rivers State at the Government House Banquet Hall in Port Harcourt.

According to the Senior Special Adviser – Media, Rivers State Government, Hector Igbikiowubo, the lecture, themed “Rivers State, yesterday, today, and Tomorrow: Search for Sustainable Peace and Opportunities for Development,” highlighted the state’s remarkable journey and the urgent need to overcome political divisions threatening its progress.

Vice Admiral Ibas reflected on Rivers State’s historic struggle for identity and self-determination since its creation in 1967, noting its emergence as Nigeria’s second-largest economy with a $28.4 billion GDP and over 40% of Nigeria’s onshore crude oil production.

Despite these achievements, he lamented that political conflicts have strained institutions, eroded trust, and undermined governance.

“This is not the Rivers State we dreamt of. It is not the legacy our forebears fought to build, and it must not be the path we continue to walk,” he declared.

The Administrator attributed the current political crisis to the failure of elites, faith leaders, and elders who either took sides or fueled tensions.

He emphasized that differences can be resolved through mature dialogue and a shared commitment to peace.

He praised President Bola Tinubu for intervening to prevent anarchy and appointing an administration tasked with restoring democratic institutions, justice, and order—a mandate he vowed to fulfill.

Beyond hydrocarbons, Rivers State boasts a thriving agricultural sector and growing investments in tourism and manufacturing. However, Vice Admiral Ibas stressed that sustainable progress depends on collective efforts toward reconciliation.

“We must rebuild Rivers State on the pillars of peace, unity, and shared prosperity,” he urged, highlighting the need to secure a brighter future for Rivers children, whose aspirations depend on stability and access to quality education.

Guest lecturer Prof. Godwin Okon of Rivers State University traced the state’s evolution from a public-sector-driven economy to a dynamic public-private partnership model, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy.

In his welcome remarks, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, celebrated the resilience of Rivers people and their unwavering commitment to a prosperous future.