The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd.) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has officially inaugurated new chairpersons and members of the governing councils for four state-owned tertiary institutions, tasking them with the responsibility to elevate these schools into centres of academic excellence, innovation, and technical skills development.
The inauguration ceremony took place at the Executive Chambers in Government House, Port Harcourt, on Friday, signaling the government’s renewed dedication to advancing education within the state. The newly appointed councils will oversee Rivers State University (RSU), Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic in Rumuola, and Kenule Benson Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic in Bori.
In his remarks, Administrator Ibas emphasized education as the foundation for sustainable development and empowerment for the people of Rivers State. He praised Rivers State University and Ignatius Ajuru University of Education for their longstanding contributions to producing professionals and innovators who have made significant impacts locally and internationally.
He urged the councils to offer visionary leadership by ensuring effective governance, accountability, and fostering environments conducive to quality teaching, learning, and research. Acknowledging existing challenges such as infrastructure deficits and funding constraints, Ibas expressed confidence that these obstacles can be overcome through commitment and integrity.
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“Universities are not isolated institutions; they are engines driving social and economic progress,” he remarked, encouraging transparency and the cultivation of partnerships with private sector stakeholders, development agencies, and global academic communities.
Turning to the polytechnics, the Administrator highlighted their crucial role in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a cornerstone for industrial growth. Named after distinguished sons of Rivers State, these institutions have a history of producing skilled graduates who actively contribute to various sectors.
He charged the polytechnic councils with upholding discipline, enhancing access to technical education, improving infrastructure, and promoting innovation. He further reassured the newly sworn-in members of the state government’s ongoing support in resources and policy frameworks.
Concluding the event, Vice Admiral Ibas congratulated the appointees, describing their appointments as a call to dedicated service, with hopes that their leadership will drive lasting progress for the state’s educational landscape.
