Teacher, Administrator
Birth and Parentage
Born on April 28, 1928, in Otuabagi town within the Ogbia Local Government Area, now part of Bayelsa State, he was the offspring of the late Chief Olukutu Inatibibo – Emi Eferebo Alagoa, whose roots traced back to Nembe city in the Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. His father held the prestigious title of Chief Amain of Nembe at that time. His mother, the late Madam Esther Elogun Obu, hailed from Otuabagi, Otakeme, Kolo, and Emagua, all situated in the Ogbia/Abua/Odua Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Early Life
George Alagoa spent his early life in Otuabagi, Ogbia, and also traveled to see his father and grandfather, the late Chief Joseph Alagoa, in Nembe. His mother, the late Esther Obu, was a businesswoman and a devoted Christian who played a major role in George Alagoa’s upbringing and education. She provided him with the best she could afford and had a lasting impression on his life.
Education
George Alagoa commenced his primary education at St. Mark’s Primary School, Ogidama (now Otakeme), in the Ogbia Local Government Area. In 1942, he transferred to St. Michael’s Primary School, Oloibiri, where he completed his primary education in 1944.
In December 1944, during a meeting organized by the late Rev. G.I Amangala, proposals were made to educate talented Ogbia sons. Rev. Amangala promised a native authority scholarship for any Ogbia son securing admission to an approved government secondary school. George Alagoa gained admission to Okrika Grammar School and was awarded the scholarship. Despite the challenges of a seven-day river journey, he completed his Cambridge School Certificate in 1951 with outstanding results.
George Alagoa continued his studies through distance learning at Wolsey Hall University (Oxford) and Rapid College London from 1958 to 1963, passing his Advanced Level examinations in History, Economics, and British Constitution, and obtaining a B.A. in History from London University. He also completed his Inter-LLB program with London University through correspondence.
Work Experience
George Alagoa began his career in education as a C.D Teacher at B.C.M School, Abonnema. On April 5, 1951, he transitioned to the civil service, holding administrative roles in various locations including Abak, Calabar, Opobo, Eket, and Port Harcourt. In Calabar, he achieved the first position in the Eastern Region in the civil service administration test known as the Position Test.
After the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1969), he returned to the old Rivers State, working in various capacities such as Executive Officer General Duties in the Produce House, Ministry of Establishment, where he demonstrated dedication and received promotions.
Throughout his career, he attended seminars and workshops, enhancing his administrative skills. Notable events include his participation in seminars by the Center for Management Development in Jos (1974), Port Harcourt, Aba, and Calabar (1974), Ilorin (1975), and the Federal National Seminar/Workshop in Jos, Plateau State, in 1983.
In 1982, he was appointed Permanent Secretary, Civil Service Commission, Port Harcourt. George Alagoa retired from the civil service in 1985, leaving an untarnished legacy.
Post-retirement, he served as Assistant Manager Administration with West Africa Oilfield Services from 1990 to 1992. Known for his honesty, dedication, hard work, integrity, and punctuality, he made a lasting impact both in his civil service career and subsequent role in the private sector.
Christian Life
George Alagoa was a devoted Anglican, actively participating in the Cyprians Anglican Church on Hospital Road, Port Harcourt, and supporting St. Stephen’s Anglican Church in Otuabagi. His faith was evident in his practical Christianity, guided by the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. Known for his benevolence, he dedicated his life to helping those in need, including widows, orphans, and the less privileged in society.
A regular visitor to homes in Port Harcourt, such as the Old People’s Home on Harbor Road, the Orphanage Home in Borokiri, and the Obioma Cheshire Home on Creek Road, George Alagoa made it a priority to support these institutions. Despite financial constraints, he consistently gave to these homes, demonstrating a compassionate and caring spirit.
George Alagoa extended his generosity beyond local boundaries by becoming a partner of the Oral Roberts Ministry in the United States. His non-materialistic nature was a defining aspect of his character, leading him to prioritize the well-being of others over accumulating wealth during his civil service career. Content with his earnings, he remained true to his values.
Education held a central place in George Alagoa’s life. His love for learning translated into a commitment to ensuring that those around him had access to education. Whether by directly facilitating admissions through his connections or funding individuals with his own resources, he played a key role in helping people pursue education. This commitment is reflected in the achievements of his children, who have become accomplished individuals both in Nigeria and abroad.
Even in his later years, George Alagoa continued his fellowship with missionary brethren in Yenagoa, building and strengthening his faith in Jesus Christ. His life exemplified a dedication to service, compassion, and a deep commitment to both his faith and the well-being of others.
Nembe Kindred
George Alagoa, despite facing limited assistance from his father during his formative years, remained deeply connected to his paternal roots and the great Alagoa dynasty. His father, hailing from Nembe and having held the title of Chief, contributed to George Alagoa’s core identity as a Nembe man. Despite the challenges in his early life, George Alagoa maintained positive interactions with his paternal family members whenever called upon.
He actively participated in family gatherings, attending meetings held in Nembe, Port Harcourt, old Rivers State, and other locations. This consistent presence at family events highlighted his commitment to maintaining strong ties with his Nembe heritage. It’s noteworthy that George Alagoa not only embraced his Nembe lineage but also spoke both the Nembe and Ogbia languages fluently, showcasing his cultural versatility and deep connection to both sides of his heritage.
Places Lived
Throughout his life, George Alagoa resided in various towns and neighborhoods across Nigeria. Some of the notable places include:
- 26 Captain Amangala Street, Port Harcourt
- 41 Harold Wilson Drive, Borokiri, Port Harcourt
- 12B Rex Lawson Street, Borokiri, Port Harcourt
- Okutukutu neighborhood, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State
These locations reflect the diverse experiences and the journey George Alagoa undertook during his earthly sojourn. Each place likely holds unique memories and connections for him and his family.
Marital Life
George Alagoa was married to Deaconess Irene Inemo Alagoa. Their commitment to each other was evident in her support through thick and thin. Deaconess Irene Alagoa’s culinary skills established a sought-after eatery spot for civil servants and the public in both old Rivers State and the Federal Medical Center in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, highlighting her contributions to the community through her culinary talents.
His Death
In March 2019, Elder George Olukutu Alagoa peacefully passed away at the Federal Medical Center in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. His legacy encompasses a lifetime of service, dedication to education, and unwavering support for others. His impact on the community, both through his career and philanthropy, continues to resonate, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, integrity, and a commitment to improving the lives of those around him.
