Teacher • Headmaster • Administrator • Scholar • Chief
Roots and Royal Lineage
On December 10, 1933, in Nembe–Ogbolomabiri, Bayelsa State, Collins Julius Pekene was born into the family of Julius Obekuma Pekene and Mrs. Ekineta Pekene (née Ebiozu). Though his father passed while he was still young, Collins carried within him a princely heritage. His genealogy linked him to the great houses of Nembe—descended from kings, chiefs, and warriors. Yet life was not cushioned by privilege; it demanded resilience, and resilience became his hallmark.
The Pursuit of Knowledge
From 1941 to 1949, Collins studied at St. Luke’s School, Nembe, earning his First School Leaving Certificate. His passion for learning led him to St. John’s College, Diobu, where he obtained the Grade III Teachers Certificate in 1955, and later to Government Teacher Training College, Uyo, where he earned the Grade II Certificate in 1959.
Hungry for more, he pursued correspondence studies to secure his General Certificate of Education (GCE). In 1961, he entered the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), graduating in 1965 with a degree in Economics and Statistics. His academic journey did not end there. In the 1970s, he traveled to the United States, earning a Master’s degree at the University of Missouri, Columbia (1974) and a Ph.D. at the State University of New York, Buffalo (1983). Collins Pekene became an erudite scholar par excellence, a man whose intellect was matched only by his perseverance.
A Life in Service to Education
Collins began as a teacher in Nembe, Sangana, Akassa, and Twon‑Brass between 1950 and 1953, rising to Headmaster at St. Luke’s School, Nembe, and other institutions. His career took a decisive turn after his university studies. He worked at the Federal Office of Statistics and the National Universities Commission before joining Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, as Assistant Registrar (Admissions) from 1968 to 1971.
Returning home, he became one of the pioneer administrators of the Rivers State College of Science and Technology (now Rivers State University). In 1976, he was appointed the pioneer Registrar of the Rivers State College of Education, Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt (today Ignatius Ajuru University of Education). For twenty‑one years, until 1997, he guided the institution with vision, discipline, and compassion, opening doors of higher education to countless Ijaw sons and daughters.
Public Service and Activism
Beyond academia, Collins served on the Rivers State Library Board, Census Board, and Scholarship Board, and later contributed to the Universal Basic Education Technical Working Committee on Social Mobilization.
He was also deeply involved in Ijaw activism. As Secretary‑General of the Ijaw National Congress (Central Zone) from 1994 to 1996, he championed the cause of his people, ensuring their voices were heard in the wider Nigerian polity. His activism was rooted in justice, equity, and the upliftment of the Niger Delta.
Family and Christian Devotion
On June 15, 1975, Collins married Mrs. Atonye Pekene (née Robert Dede). Their union blossomed for nearly three decades, celebrated with a Silver Jubilee in 2000. Together they raised five children, and their home became a haven for relatives and students alike, many of whom he supported in their educational journeys.
A faithful Anglican, Collins was baptized and confirmed in 1955 at St. Luke’s Church. He lived his faith with humility, forgiveness, and generosity. In retirement, he devoted more time to Bible study and worship at St. Andrew’s Church, Port Harcourt, and St. Luke’s Cathedral, Nembe. His tenor voice in hymns was cherished by his family and congregation.
Chieftaincy and Legacy
In recognition of his achievements and noble lineage, Collins was conferred with the title of Alabo (Dr.) C.J. Pekene on April 17, 1995, by the Amanyanabo of Nembe. As a chief, he continued to serve his community, embodying dignity and responsibility.
His legacy is vast: he accelerated admissions for countless students from Rivers and Bayelsa States into Ahmadu Bello University during the Civil War era, guided institutions as Registrar, and mentored generations. He was a motivator, emancipator, and architect of human capacity.
Final Years
Though he battled illness in his later years, Collins remained steadfast in spirit. On January 4, 2004, he passed away at the age of 71. His life was a testament to perseverance, scholarship, leadership, and faith. He is remembered not only as a pioneer in education but as a man who gave himself wholly to family, community, and God.
Provenance
This biography was provided to us by the family of the late Alabo (Dr.) Collins Julius Pekene, ensuring authenticity and respect for his memory.
