Chief Godwin Moses Odumgba (1932–2020)

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Chief Godwin Moses Odumgba was a towering figure in Nigeria’s intellectual, administrative, and socio-political landscape—a man whose life journey bridged continents, institutions, and generations. Renowned for his brilliance, discipline, and refined leadership, he stood as one of the earliest university-educated elites of the Epie-Atissa people, leaving behind a legacy etched in governance, education, and community advancement.

Early Life and Heritage

Born on June 15, 1932, in Amarata (Epie), Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Chief Odumgba hailed from a distinguished lineage. He was the son of Late Chief Odumgba Moses Agbalikia, the Chief of Amarata-Epie, and Late Mrs. Wolo Odumgba.

Growing up in a culturally rich and influential household, he combined privilege with humility—engaging in farming, fishing, and communal life, while developing the discipline and elegance that would later define his personality.

Educational Pursuit and Academic Excellence

Chief Odumgba’s educational journey was both extensive and distinguished:

St. Matthias Primary School, Amarata (1940–1946)
Proctor Memorial School, Kaiama
St. Leo Catholic Primary School, Ashaka (1949)
Holy Ghost College, Umuahia (Grade II Certificate, 1954)

Driven by a thirst for higher knowledge, he proceeded to the United States, where he earned:

Bachelor of Arts in Economics – Warren Wilson College, North Carolina (1969)
Master of Arts in Economics – City College, New York (1971)

With this achievement, he became one of the earliest university graduates from the Epie-Atissa Ijaw nation, a rare distinction in his era.

Early Career in Education

He began his professional journey as a teacher and headmaster, shaping young minds across several institutions:

St. Matthias Primary School, Amarata
Sagbageria Primary School
St. Philip Catholic Primary School, Port Harcourt
Schools in Ajegunle, Lagos (as Headmaster, 1962)

His years in education laid the foundation for his leadership, discipline, and commitment to nation-building.

International Career and Professional Rise

Chief Odumgba’s global exposure distinguished him among his peers.

Between 1970 and 1973, he worked with Pan American Airlines (PANAM) at John F. Kennedy Airport, New York, becoming one of the first Nigerians to hold such a position.

In 1977, he returned to the United States to serve as Chief Information Officer at the New York Department of Labor Market Information, showcasing his expertise in economic data and workforce analytics.

Service in Nigeria: Administration and Academia

Upon returning to Nigeria in 1974, he held several key positions:

Director, Water Glass Boat Yard (Rivers State Government)
Manager, PABOD Supplies Nigeria Limited

His excellence earned him commendation from Commander Alfred Diete-Spiff, then Military Governor of Rivers State.

He also contributed to academia as a Lecturer at Rivers State University of Science and Technology, teaching:

Microeconomics
Labour Economics
Business Law
Industrial Work Experience (SIWES supervision)

NNPC Career and National Impact

In 1981, Chief Odumgba joined the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), where he rose to become:

Manager of Marketing (Falomo, Ikoyi – Lagos)

For 13 years, he played a critical role in the distribution and marketing of petroleum products nationwide, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s energy sector during a formative period.

Community Leadership and Cultural Influence

Chief Odumgba was deeply committed to his roots and people:

Grand Patron, Epie-Atissa Community (Lagos)
Founding Chairman, Oguan Congress (apex socio-cultural body of Epie-Atissa)
Member, Epie-Atissa Joint Council of Chiefs

In recognition of his service, he was conferred with the chieftaincy title:

Adukali I of Epie Kingdom

by HRM King Barrister Malla Sasime, Obenibe of Epie Kingdom

Political Engagement

Though not driven by personal ambition, Chief Odumgba participated actively in politics for the advancement of Bayelsa State:

Governorship Candidate (2003) under the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP)
Chairman, Yenagoa LGA Caucus – People’s Democratic Party (PDP)
Member, Bayelsa State Educational Trust Fund

His political journey reflected courage, vision, and commitment to grassroots development.

Authorship and Intellectual Contribution

Chief Odumgba was also a man of letters. He authored:

“Why So Stories”

—a collection of Ijaw folktales preserving indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage.

Honours and Recognition

His contributions earned him several recognitions, including:

Justice of the Peace (JP) – conferred in 1999
Distinguished Leadership Award (2019) by Environment Outreach Magazine

Family and Personal Life

He married Miss Susie B. Hick from South Carolina, USA, in 1971, and their union was blessed with three sons.

He was also a devoted father to his daughters:

Bemeyi Odumgba
Enimekeze Odumgba

He remained a strong patriarch, deeply committed to family unity and values.

Faith and Spiritual Life

A devout Catholic, Chief Odumgba upheld his faith throughout his life.

His father played a historic role in establishing St. Matthias Catholic Church, Amarata (1920), and Chief Odumgba continued in that legacy, supporting the church steadfastly.

Death and Enduring Legacy

Chief Godwin Moses Odumgba passed away on September 12, 2020, at the age of 88, at the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa.

Legacy

Chief Odumgba’s life stands as a testament to:

Intellectual excellence and global exposure
Integrity in public service
Commitment to community and culture
Leadership across education, governance, and industry

He remains:

A pioneer graduate of the Epie-Atissa people
A nation builder and policy contributor
A custodian of culture and tradition

Chief Godwin Moses Odumgba was not just a man of his time—he was a man ahead of it.
His legacy continues to inspire generations across Bayelsa State, the Niger Delta, and Nigeria at large.