Rivers Sole Administrator attends first NEC meeting in Abuja

By Kunle Sanni

The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has attended his first National Economic Council (NEC) meeting since his appointment by President Bola Tinubu.

The meeting, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, was presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima and brought together governors and deputy governors from across the 36 states of the federation.

Ibas’ attendance marked his debut on the national economic stage following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara in March 2025. His appointment has attracted significant attention amid ongoing political developments in Rivers State.

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, who recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), was directed by Vice President Shettima to lead the opening prayer at the session.

Also present at the meeting were Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia; Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo; and Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, among others. A significant number of deputy governors also attended the meeting.