society
Rivers State: Ibas’ Record Breaking Governance Amidst Peace Restoration* By Randy Owen
Rivers State: Ibas’ Record Breaking Governance Amidst Peace Restoration
By Randy Owen
In the face of political distrust, upheaval, and societal uncertainty, there exist leaders who frise above the turbulence of their times to deliver stability, order, and progress in sand of history. For Rivers State, that leader is the person of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), whose appointment as Sole Administrator marked not just a transition in governance, but the opening of a new chapter in transitioning of a disciplined democratic statecraft.
I write to the world not as a distance observer of the happenings on Rivers State but as an individual with firsthand witness. I experienced the remarkable unfolding of events in Rivers, where a leader with a military background has applied the finesse of discipline, humanistic touch of empathy, and the clarity of purpose in governance.
The words of Professor Julius Ihonvbere, Chairman of the House of Representatives Special Adhoc Committee, struck a chord that reverberated across Rivers State when he led a delegation on an unscheduled oversight visit. He said:
“I do not envy you because I know the difficult circumstances and the environment in which you are going to work. But your track record convinced me that you would be able to weather the storm and deliver as required. In any case, military officers at your level never fail on assignments. Having worked with a retired general Obasanjo, I know that whether they are in uniform or out of it, at any time, you call on them. They are always ready to serve the country. So I congratulate you first on the appointment, but also I commend you for what you’ve done so far. Contrary to what people have been marketing, we see evidence of peace and order. We see evidence of people going about their respective businesses. It’s evidence that the reverse is moving in the right direction.”
These words are an encapsulation of both the gravity of the situation on the ground and the magnitude of satisfied expectations delivered by Vice Admiral Ibas.
Emergency rule isn’t a matter to be seen or taken lightly. It is one that signals the breakdown of normalcy, it reveals the collapse of trust in democratic structures, and represents a clarion call on the urgent necessity for salvaging the moral fabric of governance. The suspension of a duly elected governor and legislature weapons all witnessed wasn’t just a constitutional emergency; it was a moral indictment on the governance machinery in Rivers State. Ibok-Ete Ibas stepped into this void, carrying the authority of the federal government and the aspirations of millions that were yearning for stability, peace, and development.
While others might have been intimidated by the enormity of the task, looking at it as an impossibility which may blow up into an international threat, Ibas approached it with the calmness of a seasoned sailor used to navigating tempestuous waters. Understood his mission to be clear and straightforward: to restore law and order, ensure stability, and create an enabling environment for economic growth.
One observable striking hallmarks of Ibas’ administration has been his uncompromising focus on accountability and transparency. The governance under his leadership was shrouded in opaque dealings. Instead, every decision was articulated, every policy grounded in rationality, and every expenditure accounted for.
He made it evident that governance is not a private enterprise but a sacred trust held on behalf of the people. Ibas’ commitment to openness has so far rekindled a sense of public ownership of the government and restoring confidence in the institutions of state once again. He totally changed the rhetoric that governance often falters when not matched with tangible delivery. In Rivers State, Ibas administration has distinguished itself by transforming promises into projects and blueprints into realities. His Midas touch is expressively in governance through several key undertakings like:
The reconstruction of the Rivers assembly complex, which was isn’t just a structural intervention but a symbolic one, but evidence of the determination to prepare Rivers for a smooth democratic rebound. Ibas breathes life back into the very edifice that embodies legislative authority.
Moreover, the completion of the Mother and Child Hospital in Port Harcourt is a landmark achievement that says as a testimony of a state that this led by an individual who is greatly committed to healthcare delivery, particularly maternal and child welfare, which often remain underfunded in times of political crisis. Fortunately for the great people of Rivers, this long-neglected project was not only completed but poised for integration into the Rivers State Teaching Hospital.
Furthermore, the dualization of the Port Harcourt Ring road is perhaps the telling of his intervention. This ambitious project that was awarded July 2023 was aimed to construct a 50.15-kilometer dual carriageway that will seamlessly connect six local government areas: Port Harcourt, Obio-Akpor, Ikwerre, Etche, Eleme, and Ogu-Bolo. This project had been stuck in bureaucratic bottlenecks despite spending a staggering ₦150 billion of the already expended for the ₦195 billionaire budgeted fund. With help of organized meeting with between professionals and Julius Berger contractors that are handling the project, Ibas exposed the rot, took decisive measures, and ensured that work commenced soonest.
These projects are not isolated acts but emblematic of a broader philosophy: that governance must touch the lives of the people directly and meaningfully. Also the improved communication between community and security agencies has helped to curb cultism, kidnapping, and infrastructure vandalism.
There is no doubt that Emergency rule is often greeted with skepticism on how it affects the familiar rhythms of electoral governance. Yet, in all these, Ibas has proven that the suspension of democracy can ever be equated to the suspension of hope in good governance. On the contrary, his deep commitment to restoring democratic order by preparing for the 30 August 2025 local government council elections, also laying the foundation for a credible election by ensuring that the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RVSIEC) is adequately funded, empowered, and shielded from undue interference, reveals a man who is ready for a smooth transition, and has high respect for the choice of the people. The people of Rivers would acknowledge that this Intentional commitment to a timely transition is perhaps one of his most enduring legacies that will keep rest in their heart.
What I believed that Admiral Ibas efficiency in governance it not merely what has endeared us to him, but his humanistic approach to leadership. This is a man who governs not as a commander that he’s known for, but has as an opportune Citizen who listens, consults, and empathizes. His policies resonate because they are people-centered, and his actions inspire because they are purpose-driven.
Rivers people have, for the first time in a long while, felt the warmth of a government that does not merely govern them but governs with them. It would be naïve to forget the situation from which Rivers State was salvaged. Political violence, legislative paralysis, and widespread insecurity had brought the state to the brink of chaos. It is within this context that the stabilising role of Admiral Ibas becomes even more remarkable.
By deploying both his military acumen and his administrative tact, he restored a semblance of order in record time. The streets of Port Harcourt which was once brimming with tension in the media space, have regained their calm. Markets trades are thriving, schools remain open, businesses breathe easier, and there is confident in the predictability of a stable environment and a peaceful transitioning in governance.
It is not a common news for interim administrators to leave a legacy that outlives their tenure. But Admiral Ibas is on the path to becoming an exception. His combination of transparency with decisiveness, firmness with fairness, and accountability with compassion, he has etched his name into the annals of Rivers State’s history as a leader who came in a moment of crisis and left behind a template for sustainable governance.
Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas has touched Rivers State with the hands of discipline, integrity, and vision—and the result is not just the glitter of cosmetic reforms but the solid gold of institutional renewal and people-centred development. The smooth transition to democracy that he is midwifing will not erase his contributions but enshrine them in the consciousness of Rivers people as the cornerstone upon which a new democratic order was built.
Professor Ihonvbere’s confidence was not misplaced. For indeed, Admiral Ibas has proven that leaders of his calibre do not fail. He has not failed Rivers State. He has not failed Nigeria. And he has not failed history.
As a proud witness to these remarkable transformations, I dare say that Rivers State will remember this season as the dawn of a new paradigm of governance, a paradigm shaped by the steady hands, clear eyes, and golden touch of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, and not merely as the time of emergency rule.
Owen is a public policy analyst writing from Port Harcourt.
society
Trump Raises Alarm Over Iran’s Expanding Missile Arsenal Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions
Trump Raises Alarm Over Iran’s Expanding Missile Arsenal Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“U.S. president claims Tehran had more missiles than expected and was weeks away from launching attacks, sparking renewed global security concerns.”
United States President Donald Trump has intensified global debate over the growing crisis in the Middle East after claiming that Iran possesses significantly more missiles than American intelligence initially estimated and was allegedly preparing an imminent attack against U.S. interests. Trump made the assertion while commenting on the escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, warning that Iranian military capabilities were far greater than previously understood.
Trump argued that new intelligence assessments revealed that Iran had rapidly expanded its ballistic missile stockpile and had developed the capacity to strike American forces and regional allies with little warning. According to him, Iranian military planners were “within a week” of launching coordinated attacks before preventive military measures were taken. The remarks have reignited international discussions about the scale of Iran’s missile program and the broader security implications for the Middle East.
The claims emerged amid renewed tensions between the United States and Iran following military operations targeting Iranian facilities believed to be linked to weapons development and regional military coordination. Washington has maintained that such actions were necessary to prevent a potential escalation and to protect American personnel stationed across the region.
Security analysts, however, caution that the situation reflects a deeper geopolitical rivalry rather than a single imminent threat. Dr. Anthony H. Cordesman, a renowned military analyst at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, noted that Iran’s missile development has been expanding steadily for years as part of its broader deterrence strategy. According to Cordesman, “Iran relies heavily on missile capabilities because it cannot match the conventional military power of the United States or its regional partners. These weapons are central to its defensive posture and influence across the region.”
Similarly, Professor Vali Nasr, a Middle East expert at Johns Hopkins University, argued that the missile issue must be viewed within the wider strategic competition between Iran and Western powers. Nasr explained that “Iran’s missile program has long been a tool of strategic leverage. While it certainly raises legitimate security concerns, the rhetoric surrounding it often reflects political positioning as much as intelligence assessments.”
Iran has consistently maintained that its missile program is purely defensive and aimed at safeguarding its sovereignty against foreign intervention. Officials in Tehran have repeatedly denied planning any direct attacks on the United States, insisting that their military capabilities are intended to deter aggression rather than provoke conflict.
Despite these denials, regional tensions remain high. Analysts warn that heightened rhetoric from political leaders, combined with military deployments and intelligence claims, could fuel misunderstandings that might spiral into a broader confrontation.
Energy markets and global security observers are also closely monitoring the situation because instability in the Middle East (one of the world’s most critical energy corridors) can have far-reaching economic consequences. Economist Paul Krugman emphasized that geopolitical shocks in the region often reverberate through global markets. “Any serious escalation involving Iran can disrupt oil supply expectations, unsettle financial markets and affect economic stability far beyond the region,” he said.
Diplomatic experts say sustained dialogue remains the most viable path to preventing further escalation. Former U.S. diplomat Ryan Crocker stressed that “military pressure alone rarely resolves deeply rooted geopolitical disputes. Long-term stability requires negotiations, trust-building measures and regional cooperation.”
As the standoff continues, governments, security institutions and international observers remain alert to developments that could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. Trump’s comments have added another layer of tension to an already volatile environment, reinforcing fears that the region could face renewed instability if diplomatic efforts fail to gain traction.
While policymakers debate the scale of the threat posed by Iran’s missile arsenal, experts agree that the stakes remain extremely high; not only for the United States and Iran but also for the broader international community seeking to prevent another major conflict in the Middle East.
Empowered Women, Stronger Nation: Building Futures Through Property Ownership
As the world commemorates International Women’s Day, attention rightly turns to the extraordinary role women play in shaping families, communities, and national economies. Beyond nurturing homes and leading in boardrooms, women are increasingly emerging as powerful drivers of nation-building through one of the most transformative assets of all, property ownership.
Across Nigeria, women are steadily breaking long-standing barriers in business, governance, technology, education, and entrepreneurship. Their expanding economic influence is uplifting households, strengthening institutions, and reinforcing the nation’s financial foundation. The evidence is clear: when women earn, communities prosper; when women invest, societies advance.
One of the most visible expressions of this progress is in real estate acquisition. Property ownership empowers women with security, stability, and the ability to build generational wealth. A home is more than a structure of concrete and steel, it is a platform for legacy, enterprise, social mobility, and long-term influence.
From young professionals purchasing their first plots of land to seasoned executives expanding diversified investment portfolios, Nigerian women are redefining wealth creation and strategic future planning. Their growing presence in the property market signals a cultural and economic shift toward asset-backed empowerment.
Real estate remains one of the safest and most rewarding investment paths, and women are embracing the opportunity with confidence. Their participation is reshaping urban development patterns, influencing housing demand, and stimulating construction, infrastructure growth, and employment value chains nationwide.
At Adron Homes and Properties, empowering women through property ownership is seen as a direct investment in national progress. Every woman who secures land or a home strengthens family stability, fuels economic growth, and inspires future generations to dream bigger and aim higher.
This International Women’s Day, women are celebrated not only for who they are, but for what they build:
* Builders of families
* Drivers of economic growth
* Investors in the future
* Architects of generational wealth
To honor their impact, Adron Homes is expanding access to ownership through flexible payment plans, inclusive investment opportunities, and customer-friendly support services designed to make property acquisition simple, transparent, and rewarding.
Because when women rise, nations thrive. And when women own property, the future is secured.
society
PALESH KENYA 2026 Ends in Grand Style as UNIPGC African Continental Chapter Honors Prof. Patrick Lumumba (PLO) as PATRON
*PALESH KENYA 2026 Ends in Grand Style as UNIPGC African Continental Chapter Honors Prof. Patrick Lumumba (PLO) as PATRON*
The 15th Edition of the *UNIPGC PAN AFRICAN LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM and HONORS (PALESH) Kenya 2026* concluded in grand style as the African Continental Chapter of the *United Nations International Peace and Governance Council (UNIPGC Africa)* honored renowned Pan-Africanist, *Prof. Patrick Lumumba (PLO)* as its *PATRON* alongside other distinguished personalities.
This honor bestowed on Prof. Lumumba is in recognition of his outstanding contributions to leadership, governance advocacy, and Pan-African development.
This prestigious event which took place on *Friday, March 6, 2026*, at the *KCB Leadership Institute, Karen, Nairobi, Republic of Kenya*, attracted prominent leaders, diplomats, and professionals from across Africa.
It may be recalled that in the previous year, *Liberia’s immediate past Vice President, H.E. Jewel Howard Taylor*, was honored as MATRON UNIPGC AFRICA by the organization. H.E. Jewel Taylor served as *Vice President of Liberia from 2018 to 2024 under President George Weah and was also First Lady of Liberia from 1997 to 2003*during the presidency of her former Husband , Charles Taylor.
The *15th Edition of PALESH Kenya 2026* commenced with the *Morning Session*, which featured guest accreditation and red carpet interviews with distinguished dignitaries and participants who attended the event.
The symposium marked a significant moment in the advancement of diplomacy and leadership discourse in Africa, bringing together notable leaders from different parts of the continent.
The *Leadership Symposium* featured prominent African leaders who delivered keynote addresses centered on the theme:
*Governance for Sustainable Development: Challenges and Prospects in Africa.*
Among the distinguished keynote speakers were:
* *His Excellency Mike Mbuvi Sonko*, Former Governor of Nairobi City, Republic of Kenya.
* *His Excellency Prof. Dhadho Godhana*, Executive Governor of Tana River County, Republic of Kenya, and Chairman of the UNIPGC Advisory Council on Democracy and Governance.
* *H.E. Bishop Dr. Sinzohagera Emmanuel*, Former Senate President of the Republic of Burundi.
The event also featured the Inauguration Ceremony of Hon. Dr. Joshua Kaputa, whose oath-taking and investiture were conducted by the *UNIPGC Global President , His Excellency Amb. Dr. Jonathan Ojadah, GCOP*
The second Panel discussions and sessions were moderated by *Isabel Brenda* Founder and President of *Governance Hub Africa, Kenya*
Key speakers and topics presented during the symposium included:
* *Bishop Amb. Dr. John C. W*— *“Youth Activism and Political Participation: Shaping Africa’s Democratic Future.”*
* *Dr. Olubusola Oluwaferanmi* Founder/CEO, **FerFis Holistic Wellness (Nigeria/USA)** — *“Strengthening Democratic Governance Through Preventative Health Systems.”*
* *Mrs. Godelieve Manirakiza* (Republic of Burundi) — *“The Role of Civil Society in Sustainable Peace Building.”*
* *Maj. (Rtd) Odha* — *“Emerging Military Threats in Africa: Causes and Consequences.”*
The event also witnessed the *inauguration of several UNIPGC executives*, including:
1. *Amb. Dr. Rosaline Adedoyin Amangbo Adedoyin*– Continental Vice President, UNIPGC Africa
2. *Chief Amb. (Dr.) Gbenro Oladipupo*– Secretary General, UNIPGC Africa
3. *Amb. Dr. John C. W*– Member Advisory Committee on Leadership & Governance
4. *Amb. Dr. Joshua Kitaro Kaputa* – Country Director, UNIPGC Kenya
5. *Amb. Apostle Jane Wanja Kamau* – Country Director, UNIPGC Burundi
6. *Dr. Essien Essien Abel* – Advisory Member, UNIPGC Global Economic Council (GEC)
7. *Dr. Obie Otti Valerie Bassey* – Regional Director, UNIPGC West Africa
8. *Mr. Chukwuemeka Iheanacho Okereke* – UNIPGC Member, Special Envoy (Imo State Coordinator)
9. *Group Capt. Kalgo Sani* – Member, Advisory Council on Security & Sustainable Peace Building
Certificates of recognition were presented by **Dr. Carlos Sousa*, Member of the *UNIPGC Supreme Council* and Secretary General, UNIPGC CANADA .
The event concluded with an elegant Evening Session , highlighted by a glamorous *All-White Peace Ambassadors Gala Dinner and Award Reception*, celebrating diplomacy, leadership, and African excellence.
UNIPGC is a diplomatic civil society organization dedicated to promoting *sustainable peace, good governance advocacy, and poverty eradication* across the globe. The organization advances its mission through education, seminars, conferences, conflict resolution initiatives, mediation, publications, lectures, and the deployment of peace emissaries where necessary.
UNIPGC has also established educational capacity-building institutions such as the Chartered Institute of Peace and Governance (CIPG) and the American University of Peace and Governance (AUPG), which serve as platforms for training diplomats, leaders, and peace ambassadors worldwide.
Through its educational programs, UNIPGC seeks to develop the capacity of global leaders, with a focus on promoting the principles that foster good governance and peaceful coexistence among societies.
The organization further aims to collaborate with governments, United Nations agencies, and diplomatic missions worldwide to support the mandates of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
According to the organization:
*”We are working closely with UN organs in various countries to strengthen the relationship between the United Nations and the people of member states, while also creating public awareness about the activities and initiatives of the UN.”*
-
society6 months agoReligion: Africa’s Oldest Weapon of Enslavement and the Forgotten Truth
-
news3 months agoWHO REALLY OWNS MONIEPOINT? The $290 Million Deal That Sold Nigeria’s Top Fintech to Foreign Interests
-
Business6 months agoGTCO increases GTBank’s Paid-Up Capital to ₦504 Billion
-
society6 months ago“You Are Never Without Help” – Pastor Gebhardt Berndt Inspires Hope Through Empower Church (Video)