Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), says his administration is laying a solid foundation for good governance in the state, driven by strong institutions, a results-oriented public service, and sustained capacity building.
Ibas stated this on Monday in Port Harcourt while declaring open a 4-Day Transformational Leadership Training Workshop for Sustainable Development, organised by the Rivers State Government in collaboration with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies.
The training, which began on Monday, brought together Permanent Secretaries, Local Government Administrators, and Directors from various ministries across the state.
Ibas, in his speech, said the workshop represented a major step in repositioning Rivers State’s public service to meet the rising expectations of citizens in a fast-changing world.
“This administration is committed to building strong institutions, promoting efficiency, and fostering a results-driven public service,” Ibas said.
“We are laying the foundation for a culture of good governance—one that will serve not just the present generation but also those to come.”
Describing the essence of the programme, Ibas said the goal was beyond mere system improvement but sought to inspire a cultural shift within the public service, anchored on excellence, accountability, and innovation.
“This training is designed to equip you with the tools and insights necessary to lead through complexity, champion reforms, strengthen local government autonomy, and deliver meaningful results to our communities. I urge you to embrace it fully with open minds and a clear commitment to translate learning into action,”he said.
He stressed that only regular and relevant training can break the cycle of stagnation in governance and prepare public servants to adapt, grow, and transform service delivery.
The Director-General of NIPSS, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, described the workshop’s theme, “Transformational Leadership for Sustainable Development”, as both timely and strategic.
“This course is meticulously designed to bridge leadership gaps and equip participants with contemporary strategies for collaborative governance,” he said.
“We commend the Rivers State Government for its commitment to sustainable economic growth, infrastructural renewal, and social development—all of which require leadership excellence at all levels.”
