Ibas Pledges To Resuscitate State-Owned Media Houses 

The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to revitalising state-owned media organisations to enable them meet modern operational standards and better serve the public.

Ibas made the pledge following an extensive inspection tour of State media houses, including The Tide Newspapers, Rivers State Television (RSTV), Radio Rivers FM, Garden City FM, and the State Printing Press.

The Administrator who described the media as “indispensable to societal survival and development,” emphasised the need for urgent intervention to restore these critical platforms.

He said, “Without the media, we wonder how society would survive,” adding “We must identify key areas requiring intervention and ensure our media houses operate at the standards expected by the public.”

Highlighting the media’s pivotal role in fostering good governance and an informed citizenry, the Administrator revealed that his administration has already laid out plans for facility upgrades.

“If funds are available, I assure you that within six months, we will complete the necessary improvements,” he said.

“I have directed the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Communications, to develop a comprehensive plan, leveraging provisions in the budget,” he added.

Expressing concern over the current state of infrastructure and equipment in all the state-owned media houses, Ibas assured that revitalisation efforts would be both immediate and sustained.

He urged media personnel to adopt a proactive approach to equipment maintenance, stressing that “longevity depends not just on the age of machinery but on proper usage and maintenance.”

“It’s not only about replacing old equipment. Staff must also commit to preventive and corrective maintenance practices to maximise efficiency and lifespan.”

The inspection tour forms part of the Administrator’s broader agenda to rejuvenate public institutions across Rivers State, ensuring they deliver optimal service to the citizens.