- New SSG: Professor Ibibia Lucky Worika, a legal expert with international experience.
- Acting Head of Service: Dr. Mrs. Iyingi Brown, previously Permanent Secretary, Welfare.
- Why the Change? Former SSG Dr. Tammy Danagogo served under suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Former Head of Service Dr. George Nwaeke resigned.
- Ibas’s Goal: To bring peace, stability, and security to Rivers State.
Worika Takes the Helm as SSG
Professor Ibibia Lucky Worika isn’t just any appointee. He’s a globally recognized scholar with a Ph.D. in International Environmental and Comparative Petroleum Law & Policy. That’s a mouthful, but it means he knows his stuff when it comes to law, policy, and international relations. Ibas himself said the appointment reflects a commitment to use the state’s “great human capital.” He believes Worika will help bring about peace and stability.
Who is Professor Worika?
Worika hails from Okirika in Rivers State and has a seriously impressive resume:
- Director of the Centre for Advanced Law Research at Rivers State University.
- Former 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.
He’s also consulted for governments in Namibia, Malawi, and Guyana, helping them with everything from drafting laws to negotiating international agreements.
Brown Steps Up as Acting Head of Service
Dr. Mrs. Iyingi Brown is no stranger to the inner workings of the Rivers State government. As the former Permanent Secretary, Welfare, she’s already deeply involved in the state’s administrative processes. Her experience will be crucial as she steps into the role of acting Head of Service.
Why All the Changes Now?
The previous SSG, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, served under suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The former Head of Service, Dr. George Nwaeke, resigned. These changes come at a time of political tension in Rivers State, with ongoing disputes between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Ibas’s appointments could be seen as an attempt to stabilize the government and bring in fresh perspectives.
What Does This Mean for Rivers State?
Only time will tell. But with a legal mind like Professor Worika at the helm as SSG and the experienced Dr. Brown as Head of Service, Rivers State could be poised for some significant changes. Ibas is clearly aiming to bring in top talent to tackle the challenges facing the state.
Looking Ahead
The appointments of Professor Worika and Dr. Brown mark a pivotal moment for Rivers State. As they step into their new roles, all eyes will be on their efforts to promote stability, good governance, and sustainable development.
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