By Katherine Abayomi
In a significant move, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe CFR, the sole Administrator of Rivers State, has appointed Professor Ibibia Lucky Worika as the new Secretary to the Rivers State Government (SSG). This appointment, made on Monday, March 24, 2025, is a testament to Professor Worika’s impressive credentials, extensive experience, and outstanding performance during the rigorous selection process.
Professor Worika, a globally recognized scholar, legal expert, and administrator from Okirika, Rivers State, boasts a proven track record in public service and institutional leadership. His distinguished career spans academia, international legal practice, and high-level policy advisory roles. Notably, he has served as Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Port Harcourt, Senior Legal Adviser at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London, General Legal Counsel for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in Vienna etc
Professor Worika’s expertise in policy formulation, conflict resolution, and intergovernmental relations will be invaluable in ensuring stability, efficiency, and transparency in the Administration. His consultancy work for governments, including Namibia, Malawi, and Guyana, demonstrates his ability to design and implement legal and policy frameworks that promote sustainable development and good governance.
A recipient of the OPEC Secretariat Award for Distinguished Service, Professor Worika has also been honored by the Ogu Council of Chiefs in Rivers State. His appointment reflects the Administrator’s commitment to harnessing the great human capital of the Rivers’ people to work towards achieving peace, stability, and security.