The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), has appointed Professor Ibibia Worika as the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG) following the resignation of Dr. George Nwaeke, the Head of Service.
Dr. Nwaeke, who had been serving under the suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, tendered his resignation, a move that was officially acknowledged by the Chief of Staff to the Sole Administrator.
In a statement, the government expressed appreciation for Nwaeke’s service, noting his contributions during his tenure. The Sole Administrator extended his best wishes for Nwaeke’s future endeavors.
In response to this leadership shift, Vice Admiral Ibas announced the appointment of Iyingi Brown as the Acting Head of Service, pending the selection of a substantive replacement.
The appointment of Professor Worika as the new SSG was based on his vast experience and strong credentials in law, public policy, and governance. According to the statement from the Sole Administrator’s office, Worika’s expertise will play a critical role in supporting the administration’s agenda.
“Professor Worika’s background in legal scholarship, international policy advisory, and governance makes him a valuable addition to the administration. His appointment aligns with our commitment to effective governance and stability in Rivers State,” the statement read.
Who is Professor Ibibia Worika?
Professor Worika is a distinguished scholar and legal expert from Okrika in Rivers State. His academic and professional background includes:
- Education: Holds a Ph.D. in International Environmental and Comparative Petroleum Law & Policy from the University of Dundee, UK.
- Academic Leadership: Former Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Port Harcourt and Director of the Centre for Advanced Law Research at Rivers State University.
- International Experience: Served as Senior Legal Adviser at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London and General Legal Counsel for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in Vienna.
- Policy Influence: Worked as a consultant for governments in Namibia, Malawi, and Guyana on legislative and legal frameworks for sustainable development.
- Recognitions: Recipient of the OPEC Secretariat Award for Distinguished Service and an honorary title from the Ogu Council of Chiefs in Rivers State.
