ASABA — After more than 33 years of meritorious service in the Delta State Civil Service, Sir Dr. Anthony Chukwuemeke Nwokolobia, Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, is set to retire upon attaining the mandatory age of 60, marking the end of an illustrious career defined by administrative excellence, discipline, and intellectual depth.
Born on May 7, 1966, in Otolokpo, Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State, Dr. Nwokolobia’s journey through life and service reflects a steady rise built on merit, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning. From his early education at Ukpeghoro Primary School, Umunede, to his secondary education at Anglican Grammar School, Ubulu-Uku, and Ika Grammar School, Agbor, his academic path laid a strong foundation for a lifetime of achievement.
He proceeded to Bendel State University, now Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science in 1988, followed by a Master’s Degree in International Relations from the University of Benin. In 2025, he crowned his academic pursuits with a PhD in Political Science and International Relations from Delta State University, Abraka.
Dr. Nwokolobia began his civil service career in October 1992 as a Personnel Officer after successfully navigating a rigorous recruitment process following his training under the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON). Over the years, he served in several key ministries and departments, including the Directorate of Establishments and Pensions, Bureau of Special Duties, Ministry of Environment, and Ministry of Water Resources.
His career trajectory saw him rise steadily through the ranks, becoming a Director in 2019 and later appointed Permanent Secretary in April 2021. He served in strategic roles such as Director in the Office of the Chief of Staff, Government House, where he spent over a decade working with multiple administrations, and as Delta State Liaison Officer in Lagos.
As Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Higher Education, Dr. Nwokolobia played a pivotal role in the establishment and takeoff of three state universities: Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba; University of Delta, Agbor; and Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro—institutions that are now contributing to the state’s educational advancement.
Currently serving in the Office of the Deputy Governor, he has been instrumental in ensuring administrative efficiency and supporting high-level governance operations.
Reflecting on his years in service, Dr. Nwokolobia described the experience as both challenging and rewarding, noting that working in a diverse system requires adaptability, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.
“The civil service brings together people from different backgrounds and cultures. What matters is your ability to contribute meaningfully and remain committed to improving the system,” he said.
He acknowledged the existence of challenges such as ethnocentrism and favoritism but emphasized that he remained focused on merit, teamwork, and personal development throughout his career.
A strong advocate of continuous learning, Dr. Nwokolobia urged civil servants to embrace knowledge, technology, and self-improvement, stressing that modern governance demands adaptability and innovation.
“The future of the civil service lies in upskilling and the ability to function effectively in a technology-driven environment,” he added.
Beyond administration, Dr. Nwokolobia is widely respected for his contributions to academia and professional development. His research interests span international economic relations, migration, and political stability, offering insights into Nigeria’s global positioning and development trajectory.
He is a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC), Fellow of the Institute of Professional Managers and Administrators (FIPMA), and a Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (MCIPM). He also serves as a Council Member of the College of Education, Warri.
As he prepares for retirement, Dr. Nwokolobia expressed gratitude to God for a successful career and hinted at future engagements in academia and consultancy, while noting his immediate desire to rest and reflect.
“It is not easy to rise to the peak of one’s career. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and for the grace to exit at this level,” he stated.
Offering advice to younger civil servants, he emphasized patience, integrity, humility, and dedication to duty, urging them to avoid undue ambition and instead focus on competence and ethical conduct.
“The civil service is not a place for quick wealth. It is a platform for service. If you remain diligent and committed, recognition will come,” he advised.
As Delta State bids farewell to one of its most accomplished administrators, Sir Dr. Anthony Chukwuemeke Nwokolobia leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, mentorship, and impactful public service—one that will continue to inspire generations within and beyond the civil service.
