Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Retired), born on September 27, 1960, in Nko, Cross River State, Nigeria, is a distinguished naval officer and diplomat. He has recently been appointed as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State following the declaration of a state of emergency by President Bola Tinubu.
Educational Background
Ibas began his education at Nko Primary School and completed it at Big Qua Primary School in Calabar in 1971. He attended Hope Waddell Training Institute from 1972 to 1976 and the School of Basic Studies in Ogoja between 1977 and 1979. His naval career commenced at the Nigerian Defence Academy on June 20, 1979, as part of the 26th Regular Course, leading to his commission as a sub-lieutenant on January 1, 1983.
Naval Career
Throughout his service, Ibas held several key positions in the Nigerian Navy, including:
- Executive Officer of NNS Siri, NNS Ekun, and NNS Ambe between 1993 and 1996.
- Commanding Officer of the Nigerian Navy Underwater Warfare School from 1997 to 1998.
- Naval Provost Marshal from 2003 to 2004.
- Chief of Administration at Naval Headquarters from 2011 to 2012.
- Navy Secretary from 2012 to 2013.
- Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command from 2013 to 2014.
- Chief of Logistics in 2014.
- Chief of the Naval Staff from July 2015 until his retirement in January 2021.
Diplomatic Service
Following his retirement from active military service, Ibas was appointed as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Ghana in 2021, a position he held until his recent appointment as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State.
Personal Life
Ibas is married to Theresa Ibas, and they have three children. His interests include reading, watching documentaries, and playing golf.
Vice Admiral Ibas’s extensive experience in military leadership and diplomacy is anticipated to guide Rivers State effectively during this period of transition.
