Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), has begun formal transition activities ahead of the return to democratic governance, six months after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state.

The process will commence on Sunday, September 14, 2025, with an inter-denominational thanksgiving service at the Ecumenical Centre, Abonnima Wharf Road, Port Harcourt.

According to a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Lucky Worika, the service, scheduled to hold at the Ecumenical in Port Harcourt, is expected to draw permanent secretaries, local government chairmen, security chiefs, traditional rulers, captains of industries, and other invited dignitaries.

On Friday, the Administrator, while receiving the report of the August 30 Local Government election, declared that the presidential mandate given to him on March 18 had been fulfilled.

He recalled that his administration was tasked with restoring peace, stabilizing governance, and protecting vital economic assets in the state following months of political unrest.

“When Mr. President entrusted me with this difficult assignment, I pledged to serve with courage and impartiality. Six months after, we have restored calm, stabilized the state, and ensured that Rivers remains a strong economic ally of the nation. While challenges remain, I can confidently say the presidential mandate has been fulfilled,” Ibas stated.

He expressed gratitude to security agencies, civil servants, community leaders, and the people of Rivers State for their cooperation during what he described as a “trying but purposeful” period.