Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rted) says the commitment of the newly inaugurated Boards in the civil service commission is critical to stabilizing governance, restoring democratic institutions in the State.
Ibas gave the charge while inaugurating the reconstituted Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, Rivers State Civil Service Commission, Rivers State Local Government Service Commission, and the Rivers Primary Health Care Management Board at Government House, Port Harcourt.
The administrator, in a statement by his Senior Special Adviser on Media, Hector Igbikiowubo, urged the members to uphold the highest standards of discipline, competence, integrity, and unwavering dedication in their service to the state.
Ibas, while addressing the Chairman and members of RSIEC, said their pivotal role in ensuring credible local government elections that reflect the will of the people is paramount.
He said, “Your task is clear but demanding: to conduct free, fair, transparent, and credible elections at the grassroots level.
“You must resist bias, favoritism, and external interference while restoring public confidence in the electoral process.
“The independence of your actions is crucial to sustaining peace, stability, and grassroots governance. I urge you to act with fairness, impartiality, and professionalism—even in the face of difficult choices.”
To the Rivers State Civil Service Commission, the Administrator stressed the need to eliminate mediocrity and foster a culture of excellence through merit-based recruitment, training, and promotions.
“The civil service must transition from favoritism to competence, integrity, and accountability. Your commission will lead reforms, including digital transformation and standardized practices across ministries, departments, and agencies,” he said.
Ibas disclosed that extensive training programs are underway, with a committee set up to overhaul the public service framework for greater efficiency.
Vice Admiral Ibas tasked the Rivers State Local Government Service Commission with ensuring professionalism and discipline in local government administration.
“As the closest tier of government to the people, you must drive reforms that insulate the system from politics and mediocrity. Your mandate includes merit-based recruitment, training, and enforcing standards for effective service delivery,” he stated.
The State Administrator charged the Rivers Primary Health Care Management Board with revitalizing healthcare delivery across the state’s 23 local government areas.
“Primary healthcare is the foundation of a sustainable health system. Your board must ensure facilities are adequately staffed, equipped, and operational—focusing on maternal health, immunization, malaria control, and community health services,” Ibassaid.
He emphasised data-driven operations, incentives for rural health workers, and restoring the referral system to improve healthcare access
Ibas assured the Board of sustained government support, including funding, for the effective discharge of their mandates, but warned that the boards would be held accountable for their performance.
The newly inaugurated members for RSIEC include:Dr. Michael Ekpai Odey (Chairman) with Prof. Arthur Nwafor, Prof. Joyce Akaninwor, and others as members.
For the Civil Service Commission: Dr. Livinus Bariki (Chairman), Amb. Lot Egopija, Mrs. Maeve Bestman, and others.
Local Govt. Service Commission: Mr. Isreal Amadi (Chairman), Rear Adm. Emmanuel Ofik (Rtd), Dr. Tonye Pepple, and others.
Primary Health Care Board: Dr. Dawari George (Chairman), Dr. Chituru Adiele (Executive Director), Prof. Kaladada Korubo, and representatives from key ministries.
The Administrator urged the new appointees to embrace their roles with diligence, patriotism, and a commitment to transforming Rivers State through service excellence.
