The title of the governor of Egypt during the Roman Period. The official was directly appointed by the Roman emperor from the equestrian order, namely the nonsenatorial official class. As Egypt supplied most of Rome’s grain, it was essential that the prefect not be a threat to the emperor or a potential rival. Senators were barred from entering Egypt without the emperor’s express approval. During the later Roman Empire, Egypt was divided into several provinces, but the senior official based in Alexandriaretained the title of prefect.
Historical Dictionary Of Ancient Egypt by Morris L. Bierbrier
Ancient Egypt. A Reference Guide. EdwART. 2011.