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By Tracy Moses
Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), has promised a thorough evaluation of the Port Harcourt Technical and Vocational Centre to uncover the reasons behind its underperformance and ensure it fulfills its intended purpose.
In a statement released on Saturday, May 14, 2025 by his Senior Media Adviser, Hector Igbikiowubo, the administrator noted that the centre holds immense potential for building a skilled workforce, spurring economic advancement, and addressing youth unemployment in the state.
Vice Admiral Ibas made the pledge after a tour of major state projects, which included the ongoing construction of the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex on Moscow Road, the Port Harcourt Technical and Vocational Centre located in Old GRA, and the Dr. Obi Wali International Conference Centre in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
Highlighting the value of the vocational centre, Ibas stated that its creation stemmed from a belief in the transformative potential of technical education and a desire to make a meaningful social impact.
He maintained that the continued dormancy of such a vital facility was unacceptable.
“The Port Harcourt Technical and Vocational Centre, much like the Dr. Obi Wali International Conference Centre, is currently not being put to effective use. It’s imperative that we take strategic action to ensure these investments are maximized,” he said.
On his visit to the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex, Ibas expressed contentment with the pace of construction and praised the employment opportunities it is providing for young people in the state.
“I have been briefed previously and visited this project site. Today, I conducted another inspection of this and other key infrastructure. These facilities were envisioned to stimulate the state’s socio-economic landscape. With proper utilization, we can empower more youths with skills and engage them meaningfully,” he added.