President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has received the credentials of Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate to the Philippines, Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, with both countries expressing renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
Ambassador Ibas presented his Letters of Credence to President Marcos at Malacañang Palace on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, formally marking the start of his diplomatic assignment in the Philippines.
Following the presentation, President Marcos held discussions with the Nigerian envoy on ways to deepen cooperation between Manila and Abuja, with particular emphasis on energy security, trade, investment and other areas of mutual interest.
Marcos expressed his desire to further strengthen relations between the Philippines and Nigeria during Ibas’ tenure, highlighting opportunities for both countries to expand practical cooperation and create greater economic benefits.
The appointment of Ambassador Ibas brings considerable military, diplomatic and public-service experience to Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in Manila.
A retired Vice Admiral of the Nigerian Navy, Ibas served as the 22nd Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021. His military career began with admission to the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1979, after which he was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant in 1983.
He subsequently held several senior command and strategic positions within the Nigerian Navy before rising to the position of Chief of Naval Staff.
Following his retirement from active military service, Ibas transitioned into diplomacy and served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ghana from 2021 to 2023. In that capacity, he brought his experience in security, leadership and international relations to Nigeria’s diplomatic engagement with Ghana.
His public-service career was further expanded in 2025 when he was appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State during the period of federal emergency administration.
With his extensive background in military leadership, diplomacy and public administration, Ibas arrives in Manila with experience that could prove valuable in advancing Nigeria’s interests and strengthening relations with the Philippines.
Nigeria and the Philippines established diplomatic relations on August 1, 1962. The two countries are expected to commemorate 65 years of diplomatic relations in 2027, providing an opportunity to celebrate their longstanding friendship and explore new areas of partnership.
The anniversary could also serve as a platform for both nations to intensify cooperation in areas including trade and investment, energy, education, culture and people-to-people exchanges.
For Nigeria, the posting places a highly experienced former military chief and public servant at the centre of its diplomatic engagement with a significant Southeast Asian partner.
Ambassador Ibas’s presentation of credentials therefore represents more than a formal diplomatic ceremony. It provides a fresh opportunity for Nigeria and the Philippines to build on more than six decades of relations and pursue stronger economic, cultural and strategic partnerships.
As Ibas settles into his new assignment, expectations are high that his wealth of experience in military leadership, diplomacy, and public administration will help expand Nigeria-Philippines relations and promote mutual interests between the two countries.