The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), has appointed Prof. Ibibia Worika, a distinguished legal expert and administrator, as the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
In a statement, the Sole Administrator emphasised that Prof. Worika’s selection followed a meticulous vetting process, during which his extensive experience in law, governance, and public policy made him the ideal candidate for the role.
Meanwhile, in a separate development, Iyingi Brown has been appointed as the Acting Head of Service following the resignation of George Nwaeke, the former Head of Service.
Brown, previously the Permanent Secretary for Welfare in the Office of the Head of Service, will oversee administrative operations until a permanent replacement is named.
Acknowledging Nwaeke’s tenure, the state government expressed appreciation for his contributions and extended best wishes for his future endeavors.
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The Sole Administrator reiterated his commitment to ensuring stability, efficiency, and inclusive governance in Rivers State, emphasizing the importance of leveraging the state’s human capital to achieve lasting progress.
About Worika
Hailing from Okrika, Rivers State, Prof. Worika is a globally respected legal scholar and policy expert.
He holds a Ph.D. in International Environmental and Comparative Petroleum Law & Policy from the University of Dundee, United Kingdom.
His extensive academic career includes roles as Director of the Centre for Advanced Law Research at Rivers State University and former Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Port Harcourt.
Throughout his career, he has contributed significantly to legal education, curriculum reform, and institutional partnerships.
Beyond academia, Prof. Worika has played influential roles in international law and policy. As a Senior Legal Adviser at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London, he provided strategic guidance on energy regulations and governance.
He also served as General Legal Counsel for OPEC in Vienna, where he shaped global energy policies and legal frameworks.
Additionally, he has advised various governments, including Namibia, Malawi, and Guyana, helping draft policies and legislation on sustainable development.
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His expertise has earned him multiple accolades, including the OPEC Secretariat Award for Distinguished Service and honorary recognition from the Ogu Council of Chiefs in Rivers State.
With his wealth of experience, Prof. Worika is expected to play a pivotal role in supporting the administration’s vision for a stable, progressive Rivers State.
