Are you looking for detailed information about Ibok Ekwe Ibas biography, age, personal and professional career, naval achievements, and diplomatic journey? Look no further! At Bsgistnews, we provide comprehensive insights into his life and distinguished service.
Who is Ibok Ekwe Ibas?
Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, CFR psc+ GSS AM ndc MSc (born September 27, 1960), is a retired Nigerian Navy vice admiralwho served as the 22nd Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) from 2015 to 2021.
| Full Name | Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas |
| Date of Birth | September 27, 1960 |
| Place of Birth | Nko, Cross River State |
| State of Origin | Cross River |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Source | Bsgistnews.com |
Following his naval career, he was appointed as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ghana under President Muhammadu Buhari. In March 2025, he was nominated as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu, succeeding Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who was suspended after the declaration of a state of emergency.
Ibok Ekwe Ibas Educational Background
Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas was born in Nko, Cross River State, located in South-South Nigeria. His academic journey reflects a solid foundation and extensive military training.
He began his primary education at Nko Primary School in 1966 and later transferred to Big Qua Primary School, Calabar, where he completed his studies in 1971. For his secondary education, he attended the prestigious Hope Waddell Training Institute, Calabar, from 1972 to 1976.
Between 1977 and 1979, Ibok-Ete pursued further studies at the School of Basic Studies, Ogoja, before gaining admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). He joined the 26 Regular Course on June 20, 1979, and was commissioned as a sub-lieutenant on January 1, 1983.
His educational background laid the foundation for a distinguished career in the Nigerian Navy and subsequent diplomatic service.
Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd) has undergone extensive military training both locally and internationally, equipping him with specialized knowledge in naval operations and strategic warfare. His military education began with the Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course at INS Venduruthy in India, which he attended from April 1983 to May 1984. He later pursued Primary Pilot Training at the 301 Primary Flying Training School located at the Nigerian Air Force Base in Kaduna between April 1986 and October 1987, enhancing his technical and aviation skills. In January 1990, he advanced his professional development by enrolling at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College in Jaji, Kaduna, where he completed the Junior Staff Course in June of the same year.
Ibas further expanded his expertise internationally when he joined the Amphibious Warfare School at the United States Marine Corps University in Quantico, Virginia, where he earned a diploma in amphibious warfare in May 1993. His specialization in underwater operations began in February 1994, when he commenced the Officers’ Long Course at the Underwater Warfare School located at NNS Quorra, completing the program in February 1995. Continuing his commitment to academic and professional excellence, Ibas returned to the Armed Forces Command and Staff Collegein Jaji between August 1996 and July 1997, where he successfully completed the Senior Staff Course with outstanding results.
In pursuit of advanced strategic knowledge, he attended the National Defence College in Islamabad, Pakistan, from August 2005 to June 2006, further solidifying his credentials as a defense strategist. During his time in Pakistan, he also earned a master’s degree in defence and strategic studies from Quaid-i-Azam University, reinforcing his intellectual foundation in security policies and international defense strategy. This diverse and rigorous military education has played a significant role in shaping Ibas’s leadership abilities and operational expertise throughout his distinguished career.
Ibok Ekwe Ibas: A Distinguished Naval Career and Leadership Journey
Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas has had an illustrious career in the Nigerian Navy, marked by a series of prestigious appointments and leadership roles. From his early days as a midshipman to becoming the 22nd Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), his journey reflects dedication, expertise, and strategic vision.
Early Days in the Nigerian Navy
Ibok Ekwe Ibas began his naval career with a strong foundation in operational service. As a midshipman, he served on some of the Nigeria Navy’s key vessels, including NNS Ruwan Yaro, NNS Obuma, and NNS Aradu. After being commissioned as a sub-lieutenant on January 1, 1983, he took on the role of watch-keeping officer aboard NNS Ayam and NNS Ekpe.
Between 1993 and 1996, Ibas advanced to the rank of lieutenant commander, serving as the executive officer on NNS Siri, NNS Ekun, and NNS Ambe—a critical leadership position responsible for overseeing daily ship operations.
Command and Instructional Leadership
Ibas’s expertise in underwater warfare and naval strategy positioned him for high-level command roles. In August 1997, he was appointed Commanding Officer of the Nigerian Navy Underwater Warfare School, where he played a vital role in training the next generation of naval officers. By September 1998, he took command of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibaka, where he led critical maritime security operations until June 2000.
His exceptional performance during the Senior Staff Course earned him a place as a Directing Staff at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji, a position he held from June 2000 to June 2002. He returned to the college in 2009 as the Director of Maritime Warfare, further cementing his role as a leader in naval education and strategy. In 2014, he briefly served as the Deputy Commandant of the institution.
Senior Naval Appointments and Administrative Excellence
Ibas’s career trajectory continued upward with several high-profile appointments that showcased his versatility in staff duties and operational command:
• Naval Provost Marshal (April 2003 – June 2004)
• Principal Staff Officer to the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) (June 2004 – July 2005)
• Command Operations Officer, Headquarters Western Naval Command (June 2006 – December 2006)
• Commander, Naval Air Base, Ojo (December 2006 – January 2009)
• Chief Staff Officer, Naval Training Command, Lagos (September 2010 – March 2011)
His keen administrative insight earned him key roles at Naval Headquarters, where he served as the Chief of Administration from March 2011 to February 2012 and later as the Navy Secretary from February 2012 to January 2013.
Strategic Leadership and Flag Officer Command
In January 2013, Ibas was appointed the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Western Naval Command, overseeing maritime security and naval operations in Nigeria’s western waters. By February 2014, he became the Chief of Logistics, where he played a pivotal role in managing the Nigerian Navy’s resources. Later that year, he was appointed Group Managing Director/CEO of Nigerian Navy Holdings Limited, a position he held until his appointment as Chief of the Naval Staff.
Appointment as the 22nd Chief of the Naval Staff
On July 13, 2015, Ibok Ekwe Ibas reached the pinnacle of his naval career when he was appointed the 22nd Chief of the Naval Staff. In this role, he spearheaded significant naval reforms, maritime security operations, and fleet modernization efforts, serving until 2021.
His leadership left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s maritime defense strategy, reinforcing the nation’s naval capabilities and enhancing security across its territorial waters.
Beyond the Navy: Diplomatic and Administrative Roles
Following his retirement from active military service, Ibas transitioned to diplomatic and political roles. Under President Muhammadu Buhari, he served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ghana, strengthening bilateral ties between the two West African nations.
In March 2025, President Bola Tinubu appointed Ibas as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara amid the declaration of a state of emergency.
Ibok Ekwe Ibas: A Legacy of Service and Leadership
Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd) is a distinguished figure in Nigeria’s military and administrative landscape. With an extensive career in the Nigerian Navy, prestigious national honors, and a recent appointment as the Administrator of Rivers State, his life reflects a commitment to duty and public service.
Awards and Decorations
Throughout his remarkable service in the Nigerian Navy, Ibas has received numerous accolades recognizing his dedication and exceptional performance. His awards and decorations include:
• Silver Jubilee Medal
• ECOMOG Medal
• Forces Service Star (FSS)
• Meritorious Service Star (MSS)
• Distinguished Service Star (DSS)
• General Service Star (GSS)
• Passed Staff Course (DAGGER)
• Fellow of the National Defence College (NDC)
In October 2022, President Muhammadu Buhari conferred on him the prestigious Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR)—one of Nigeria’s highest national honors—in recognition of his service and contributions to national security.
Professional Affiliations and Global Exposure
Ibas’s professional reach extends beyond his naval career. He is a member of several esteemed organizations, including:
• Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA)
• Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM)
His commitment to professional development is evident through his participation in international seminars and exhibitions, including:
• 25th International Homeland Security Exhibition (Tel Aviv, Israel – June 2011)
• 3rd International Exhibition for Operational Units (Tel Aviv, Israel – June 2011)
• London International Leadership Course (London, England – August 2012)
• Capacity Development Course at the Harvard Kennedy School (USA – January 2013)
• Naval Engineering and Logistics Seminar (Naval Dockyard, Lagos – February 2013)
His participation at the Harvard Kennedy School officially marks him as an alumnus, reinforcing his expertise in leadership and public administration.
Administrator of Rivers State
In a historic move on March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending the incumbent Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the state’s House of Assembly for an initial period of six months following the political crisis happening in the State.
During the official announcement, the President appointed Vice Admiral Ibok Ekwe Ibas (Rtd) as Sole Administrator of Rivers State to oversee the state’s affairs and restore stability:
“In the meantime, I hereby nominate Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as Administrator to take charge of the affairs of the state in the interest of the good people of Rivers State.”
The President emphasized that the judiciary in Rivers State would continue its constitutional functions and clarified that while Ibas would not create new laws, he is authorized to formulate necessary regulations, subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council.
Ibas’s appointment reflects the federal government’s confidence in his leadership capabilities, especially during a politically delicate period.
Personal Life
Beyond his public service, Ibok Ekwe Ibas is a devoted family man. He is married to Theresa Ibas, and together, they are blessed with three children. Despite the demands of his professional career, Ibas remains committed to his family and personal values.
Conclusion
From his early days in the Nigerian Navy to his current role as Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd) embodies discipline, service, and strategic leadership. His career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s security and governance.
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