Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has appointed Prof. Ibibia Worika as the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG), marking a significant leadership change in the state’s administration.

The appointment comes after a rigorous selection process that highlighted Worika’s extensive experience, academic credentials, and policy expertise. In a statement, the Sole Administrator emphasized that Worika’s distinguished career spanning academia, international legal practice, and high-level policy advisory roles makes him an ideal candidate to support the administration’s goals.

Simultaneously, Ibas appointed Iyingi Brown as the Permanent Secretary for Welfare in the Office of the Head of Service, tasking her to act as the Head of Service pending a substantive appointment. This follows the resignation of the previous Head of Service, George Nwaeke, whom the government thanked for his contributions during his tenure.

“Professor Worika’s wealth of experience in legal scholarship, public policy, and governance will be instrumental in driving the administration’s agenda,” the statement read. The Sole Administrator underscored his commitment to utilizing Rivers State’s rich human capital to promote peace, stability, and security.

The appointments take immediate effect, with the administration expressing confidence in the new leaders’ ability to support the mandate set by President Bola Tinubu for the state.