The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, participated in the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting held on Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

This marked Ibas’ first appearance at the Council since his appointment by President Bola Tinubu in March 2025, following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Vice President Kashim Shettima presided over the session, which was attended by several state governors and deputy governors from across the 36 states.

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori – who defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Wednesday—was invited by Vice President Shettima to lead the opening prayers.

Also present were Governors Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), and Bassey Otu (Cross River), among others. A significant number of deputy governors were also in attendance.

During the meeting, the Council observed a minute’s silence and offered prayers in honour of the victims of recent violence in Plateau, Benue, and Kwara states.

Vice President Shettima prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and extended condolences to their bereaved families.