By Iyke Monday
In a remarkable stride of academic and professional excellence, Dr. Sir Anthony Nwokolobia, the distinguished Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor of Delta State, has added another laurel to his illustrious journey. He recently earned a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Political Science (International Relations) from the prestigious Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, marking a new chapter in his lifelong commitment to public service, intellectual growth, and transformational leadership.
A Life of Purpose and Public Duty
Dr. Nwokolobia’s story is one of vision, discipline, and unwavering service. Born and raised in Delta State, his academic and professional trajectory reflects a lifelong dedication to excellence. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Bendel State University (now Ambrose Alli University), Ekpoma in 1988, followed by a Master’s Degree in International Relations from the University of Benin in 1999, before culminating in his Ph.D. from DELSU in 2025.
His career in public service began on October 16th, 1992, when he joined the Delta State Civil Service as a Personnel (Admin) Officer on Grade Level 08. Through decades of consistent performance and integrity, he rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a full Director (Grade Level 17) in January 2019, and subsequently appointed Permanent Secretary in April 2021.
Dr. Nwokolobia has served in numerous strategic positions, including:
- Former Delta State Government Liaison Officer, Lagos
- Former Director, Office of the Chief of Staff, Government House, where he served six different Chiefs of Staff
- Former Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education
His extensive civil service portfolio includes contributions to:
- Directorate of Establishments and Pensions
- Ministry of Environment
- Ministry of Water Resources Development
- Small Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Programme (European Union Assisted)
- Directorate of Government House and Protocol
- Delta State Government Liaison Office, Lagos
The Journey to a Doctorate
Pursuing a doctoral degree while holding a top administrative post is no small feat. Dr. Nwokolobia’s Ph.D. journey at DELSU was marked by rigorous academic research in the field of International Relations, focusing on governance, institutional development, and public policy—areas central to his professional duties.
His resilience in balancing official responsibilities with demanding academic work is a testament to his commitment to lifelong learning and personal development. According to colleagues, his journey to the doctorate was characterized by intense research, strategic time management, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.
A Degree with Purpose
For Dr. Nwokolobia, earning a Ph.D. is more than an academic milestone—it is a reaffirmation of the role of knowledge in effective public leadership. His doctorate has equipped him with deeper analytical tools and theoretical insights to enhance his contributions to governance in Delta State.
He is a Fellow of several prestigious professional bodies, including:
- Institute of Professional Managers and Administration
- Chartered Institute of Strategic Management of Nigeria
- Chartered Institute of Public Administration, Antigua
He is also a Full Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM), reflecting his broad expertise in human capital and institutional management.
A Global Perspective
Dr. Nwokolobia’s leadership outlook is globally informed. He has attended high-level courses and conferences internationally, including:
- Executive Strategic Management Workshop – NETWAS, Kenya
- Public Sector Reform & Capacity Building – RIPA, London
- Advanced Leadership Development – Baltimore, USA
- Higher Education Summit – Leeds Business School, Italy
- ATUPA Conference – Accra, Ghana
He is actively involved in academic and technical networks such as ATUPA (African Technical Universities and Polytechnics Association).
Faith, Family, and Service
Beyond his public career, Dr. Nwokolobia is a devout Christian and community leader. He is a Knight of St. Mulumba (KSM), a Justice of the Peace, a Jerusalem Pilgrim, and a Vatican Pilgrim. He is married and blessed with three children—a pharmacist, an administrator, and a lawyer—who are equally charting paths of distinction.
A Torchbearer for Intellectual Public Service
In an era where academic inquiry and public office are often seen as separate spheres, Dr. Sir Anthony Nwokolobia stands as a shining example of their powerful intersection. His career and academic journey reaffirm the belief that sound governance must be backed by sound knowledge.
As Delta State continues to navigate developmental and political complexities, it is leaders like Dr. Nwokolobia—grounded in scholarship, guided by service, and driven by vision—who will light the path forward.
Fresh Facts Magazine proudly celebrates this exceptional milestone and congratulates Dr. Sir Anthony Nwokolobia on his academic achievement and exemplary service
