Administrator • Businessman • Teacher • Statesman

Born on September 7, 1946, in Forcados, Delta State, Nigeria, Mr. Iti, Thomas Ibitimi—fondly known as Tom—was a man whose life embodied excellence, discipline, and service. He hailed from the Angiama community in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, and from his earliest years, his brilliance and leadership were unmistakable.

Early Life and Family

Tom was the eldest son and second child of Mr. Thomas Ewelubo Iti and Mrs. Felicia Oladubu Iti, both natives of Angiama. His upbringing was steeped in the values of hard work, integrity, and community service—principles that would define his journey through life.

Education and Academic Pursuits

His educational path reflected his thirst for knowledge and excellence. He began his primary education in Forcados in the early 1950s, then attended Niger Grammar School, Rumuola, Port Harcourt (1959–1963), a school founded by his relative, Hon. Frank Opigo. Afterward, he proceeded to Methodist College, Uzuakoli, where he earned his Higher School Certificate (A Levels).

A gifted athlete, Tom excelled in high jump, football, and relay races, representing his schools and later the University of Ibadan, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science and Administration in 1970. His athletic prowess earned him medals at the West African Universities Games (WAUG).

In 1978, he attended the Institute of Public Service, University of Connecticut, Hartford, USA, earning a certificate in Management. Later, in 1989, he became a Member of the National Institute (mni) after completing the Senior Executive Course at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru-Jos, where his charisma earned him the nickname “The Dancing DG.”

Career and Public Service

Mr. Iti’s career was a masterclass in administrative excellence. He began as an Administrative Officer in the old Rivers State Civil Service in 1970. His rise was swift and well-earned—by 1979, he was appointed Secretary of the Civil Service Commission, and by 1980, he became Permanent Secretary, serving with distinction under Governor Melford Okilo until 1983.

Following the 1983 military takeover, he was reassigned as Sole Administrator of Sagbama and Bonny Local Government Areas (1984–1986), where his leadership brought stability and progress. Returning to headquarters in 1986, he resumed as Permanent Secretary, later re-designated Director-General under General Babangida’s reforms. He served in the Ministries of Health, Lands, and Housing, earning a reputation for professionalism and integrity.

In 1992, he retired from the civil service but continued to serve Nigeria in other capacities. He was appointed Executive Director of Savannah Bank of Nigeria Plc, served on the Governing Council of the Financial Institutions Training Centre, and was Director of Savannah Securities Ltd. Later, he founded Ibitari Nigeria Ltd, a private contracting and consultancy firm.

His crowning appointment came in 1998, when he was named Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Bayelsa State under Administrator Lt. Col. Paul Edor Obi (rtd.). His tenure was marked by efficiency, diplomacy, and visionary leadership.

Personal Life

In 1965, Tom met Taiwo Lilian Ofongo, an Ijaw woman of grace and intellect. They married in 1972 and were blessed with four children—Peretimi Ayibatonye, Ozunimi, Ayibaemi (late), and one other. Their union lasted 22 years until Taiwo’s passing in 1994. She had served as Principal Assistant Registrar at Rivers State University of Science and Technology.

In 2004, Tom remarried Mrs. Ibaniba Iti (née Briggs) of the Kalabari tribe, with whom he shared his later years in peace and companionship.

Legacy and Passing

Mr. Iti, Thomas Ibitimi, was more than an administrator—he was a visionary builder of institutions, a mentor to generations of civil servants, and a man whose humility matched his brilliance. His colleagues remember him as a disciplined leader, a consummate professional, and a gentleman of rare grace.

He passed away peacefully on June 25, 2008, at the age of 62, leaving behind a legacy of service, intellect, and humanity. His life remains a shining example of what dedication, education, and integrity can achieve.

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