Teacher, Principal, Administrator
Augustine Ali Akene was a distinguished geographer and administrator who left an indelible mark on the Oil and Gas sector, especially with Shell Nigeria, in the late 60s and 70s.
Who Was Augustine Ali Akene?
Hailing from Kaiama town in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Augustine Ali Akene was a man of vision and dedication. He was an astute school teacher and principal at two prominent secondary schools in the Niger Delta, and he made significant contributions to the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC). With a Bachelor’s degree in Geography obtained in 1965, Augustine’s academic and professional prowess was evident. Sadly, he passed away in Port Harcourt after health complications in 2003 at the age of 71.
His Parents and Birth
Born on June 17, 1932, in Kaiama town, Southern Nigeria (now Bayelsa State), Augustine Ali Akene was the son of Chief Izoun Akene from Odowari’s compound in Kaiama and Mrs. Oroteidou Akene (nee Abiama) from Ogbolomabiri compound in Odi community. His heritage was deeply rooted in the Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Education
Augustine began his educational journey at Proctor Memorial Primary School, Kaiama, from 1942 to 1949. In 1954, he attended St. John’s College, Diobu, Port Harcourt, earning the Teacher’s Grade III certificate in 1955 and the Teacher’s Grade II certificate subsequently. He excelled in the General Certificate of Education (GCE) Ordinary Level exams in 1961 and the Advanced Level exams in 1962. This academic excellence earned him admission to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), where he graduated with a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Geography in 1965.
Career Life
Augustine Ali Akene began his career as a pupil teacher from 1950 to 1954. His professional journey took a significant turn when he joined Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in Port Harcourt in 1969. He quickly rose through the ranks, starting as a Job Evaluation Assistant and becoming Head of Estate Services at Shell Residential Area, Rumukoroshi Camp. His commitment and excellence in service led to his promotion as Head of Personnel Services and later as Head of Industrial Relations for the Western Division of Shell.
Despite a stellar career at Shell, Augustine resigned in 1974 and joined the College of Science and Technology (now Rivers State University) as a pioneer personnel officer in the registry department. His leadership skills shone as he served as Principal of Bonny National Grammar School and later Stella Maris College, Port Harcourt. He then transitioned to the Rivers State Ministry of Education, where he was promoted to Assistant Chief Inspector of Education (Secondary) and eventually headed the Post Primary Schools Board.
Augustine’s venture into politics saw him join the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), founded by Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He contested the governorship of old Rivers State but later focused on private business, excelling as a builder and engineering contractor with SPDC and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). He served as President of the Oil and Mineral Producers’ Indigenous Contractor Association from 1998 to 2001.
Chieftaincy
In 1975, Augustine Ali Akene was elected and crowned the Amadaowei (His Royal Majesty) of Kaiama. He resigned as the paramount ruler in 1987, but his influence and leadership left a lasting legacy.
Faith
A man of deep faith, Augustine was a dedicated Elder in the Church of God Mission International. His commitment to the Pentecostal faith was unwavering, and he headed the Marriage Committee of the Church of God Mission International.
Personal Life and Family
Augustine Ali Akene was married to Deaconess Rebecca Akene, a retired educationist, and they were blessed with 14 children. He was an avid reader and a prolific orator, known for his wisdom and eloquence.
His Death
In February 2003, Augustine fell ill and was admitted to Shell hospital in Port Harcourt. He suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away on February 16, 2003, at the age of 71. His legacy of excellence, dedication, and service continues to inspire all who knew him.
