The administrator of Rivers state, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), Tuesday, charged newly appointed board members to uphold the highest standards of discipline, competence, integrity, and unwavering dedication in their service to the state.
He stated that such commitment is critical to stabilising governance, restoring democratic institutions, and advancing the principles of good governance in the state.
Vice Admiral Ibas stated this while inaugurating the reconstituted Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), Rivers State Civil Service Commission, Rivers State Local Government Service Commission, and the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board at Government House, Port Harcourt.
Addressing the chairman and members of RSIEC, Vice Admiral Ibas underscored their pivotal role in ensuring credible local government elections that reflect the will of the people.
“Your task is clear but demanding: to conduct free, fair, transparent, and credible elections at the grassroots level. You must resist bias, favoritism, and external interference while restoring public confidence in the electoral process,” he stated.
“The independence of your actions is crucial to sustaining peace, stability, and grassroots governance. I urge you to act with fairness, impartiality, and professionalism, even in the face of difficult choices.”
The administrator stated the need to eliminate mediocrity and foster a culture of excellence through merit-based recruitment, training, and promotions.
“The civil service must transition from favoritism to competence, integrity, and accountability. Your commission will lead reforms, including digital transformation and standardised practices across ministries, departments, and agencies,” he said.
He added that extensive training programs are underway, with a committee set up to overhaul the public service framework for greater efficiency.
Vice Admiral Ibas also tasked the Rivers state local government service commission with ensuring professionalism and discipline in local government administration.