Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has vowed to revitalise state-owned media organisations to meet modern standards and better serve the public.
Ibas pledged on Saturday during an inspection tour of Rivers State Television (RSTV), Radio Rivers FM, The Tide Newspaper, Garden City FM, and the State Printing Press.
He described the media as “indispensable to societal survival and development,” stressing the need for urgent intervention to restore the institutions. “Without the media, we wonder how society would survive. We must identify key areas requiring intervention and ensure our media houses operate at the standards expected by the public,” he said.
The Administrator disclosed that plans for facility upgrades were underway, adding that the Ministry of Information and Communications had been directed to prepare a comprehensive plan under existing budget provisions. “If funds are available, I assure you that within six months, we will complete the necessary improvements,” he stated.
Expressing concern over dilapidated infrastructure and outdated equipment, Ibas assured that the intervention would be immediate and sustained. He also urged staff to adopt proactive maintenance practices, noting that efficiency and longevity of equipment depended on proper use and regular servicing.
The inspection is part of the Administrator’s broader reform agenda to strengthen public institutions across Rivers State.