- New permanent secretaries appointed by Vice Admiral Ibas.
- Swearing-in date to be announced soon.
- Questions arise about the future of current permanent secretaries.
- Background on previous contract issues and Fubara’s changes.
Fresh Faces: Meet the New Permanent Secretaries
Here’s the list of the newly appointed permanent secretaries, according to the statement released by Acting Head of Service, Dr. Mrs. Inyingi Brown:
- Imaonyani Roselin Ephraim-George
- Dr. Mina T. Ikuru
- Dabite Sokari George
- Soibitein Duke Harry
- Lauretta Davies Dimkpa
- Uche R. Ideozu
- Chimenum Mpi
- Jeremiah Egwu
- Nicholas Iminabo Wokoma
- Vera Sam Dike
- Aleruchi Akani
What’s Next? Swearing-In Ceremony on the Horizon
Dr. Brown’s statement mentioned that the swearing-in ceremony will be conducted by the Administrator. The date? Still under wraps! Stay tuned, we’ll bring you the update as soon as it drops. According to insiders, the new administrators will play a vital part in streamlining the state government to eliminate inefficiencies.
Will the Old Guard Step Aside?
Now, here’s the burning question: What happens to the permanent secretaries who are already in office? Will they be asked to leave? This is a developing story, and we’re digging for answers!
Flashback: Contract Controversies and Fubara’s Shake-Up
Remember the drama with the previous administration? Before suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara took charge, many permanent secretaries were serving on a contract basis, thanks to former Governor Nyesom Wike. Insiders say many of the permanent secretaries had exceeded their service terms, but were retained under contract.
Fubara, upon assuming office, shook things up by dismantling the contract system and swearing in over 16 new permanent secretaries on January 16, 2024. This move aimed to address the administrative gaps caused by the contract issues.
Who Were Fubara’s Picks?
Here’s a reminder of some of the permanent secretaries sworn in by Fubara:
- Hebron Wisdom
- Dede Sampson Friday
- Briggs Atemea Karibo
- Nyempe Gregory
- Ndah Emmanuel
- Ngochindo James Epobari
- Ishmael Tomonialadieokuma
- Wakama Boma A. George
- Nweke Onyeche Kelvin
- Okereuku Alwell Chinedum
- Ndukue Patrick
- Ichemati Maxwell Mbadiwe
- Iwarilama-Brown Invingi Sabina
- Ogolo Maurice Eric
- Kejeh Ruhuoma Chinedu
- Jacob Fayeofori Francis
And let’s not forget the permanent secretaries sworn in on August 16, 2024:
- Mekele Comfort Igwe
- Mrs. Anthonia I. Ekiseh
- Dr. Azibaolanari Uzoma-Nwogu
- Mrs. Ihuoma Patience Ray-Boms
- Mr. Nwizug Gonee Gordon
- Mr. Chukwuma Ndudi August Ine
Why the Changes? Fubara’s Vision
Fubara had previously highlighted that many ministries lacked proper administrative heads due to the contract issues. This new wave of appointments aims to fill those gaps and ensure smooth governance.
The Bigger Picture: What This Means for Rivers State
These changes signal a potential shift in the administrative landscape of Rivers State. Will it lead to greater efficiency and better governance? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: all eyes are on Rivers State!