Banker, Accountant
Mann Abali was a UK-trained practical Banker and Accountant who left an indelible mark in the Rivers State Public Service from the 1970s to the early 2000s. His legacy in the banking and educational sectors remains significant, making him a notable figure in Bayelsa State history.
Synopsis
Mann Abali (1948-2014) hailed from Otakeme in Ogbia Local Government Area and Twon-Brass in Brass Local Government Area, both in Bayelsa State. Known for his excellence in practical banking, he worked with the defunct Pan African Bank Limited from 1972 to 1993. Fondly called “Mann Abal,” he later contributed to the development of the Federal College of Education (Technical) Omoku in Rivers State as a management staff. He passed away in 2014 at the age of 66.
His Parents and Birth
Mann Abali’s father, Alabo Benjamin Nelson Abali-Shidi, was from Shidi Ama in Twon-Brass and Otakeme communities in Bayelsa State. A renowned community chief, he was a seasoned contractor with Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) until his death in 2013. Mann’s mother, Mrs. Caroline Abali (nee Aroh), was the daughter of the famous catechist Samuel Johnson Aroh of Otuogidi community in Ogbia kingdom. She passed away around 1999.
Mann was born in Ghana on April 17, 1948, while his father served with the Military (West African Frontier Forces). Raised by his maternal grandparents in Otuogidi village, his grandfather, Catechist Samuel Aroh, instilled in him the values of humility, Christlike living, and temperance.
Education
Mann began his education at St. Michael’s School in Oloibiri, Ogbia, earning his First School Leaving Certificate in 1963. He continued at Mater Dei High School in Imiringi and later attended Baptist High School in Port Harcourt, completing his secondary education in 1971. He passed the General Certificate of Education Examination in 1972 and 1975.
In 1982, under the Rivers State Government scholarship, he went to the UK to study Banking and Business Financing at Liverpool Polytechnic, earning a Higher National Diploma in 1984. He completed his National Youth Service Corps at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja in 1988.
Mann also pursued studies at the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (now Rivers State University) but did not complete his Law degree due to a promotion. He later studied Financial Management at the National Open University and earned a professional accounting certification from the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria in 2011.
Career
Mann’s career was marked by both achievements and challenges. He began with Posts and Telecoms (P&T) Nigeria before joining Pan African Bank Limited as a Bank Clerk in 1972. Rising through the ranks, he became Branch Manager in 1990, demonstrating exceptional banking prowess.
Unfortunately, in 1993, Mann was laid off due to staff rationalization. Despite the setback, he ventured into transportation business to make ends meet. In 1999, he joined the Federal College of Education (Technical) Omoku as Principal Accountant, eventually becoming Deputy Bursar until his death in 2014.
His Life after PAB
Mann’s departure from Pan African Bank Limited was devastating, but he resiliently transitioned to new ventures, including the transportation business. His stint at FCET Omoku was impactful, earning admiration for his professionalism and kindness.
Professional Membership
- Member, Institute of Administrative Accountants of London (1985)
- Member, Institute of Bankers of London (1984)
- Member, Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (2011)
Mann Abali’s Faith
Raised in an Anglican home, Mann was baptized and confirmed in the 1960s. He later explored different faith avenues, maintaining a strong belief in the repercussions of deeds both on earth and in the afterlife.
Personal Life
Mann married Elder Patience Abali (nee Ekoni) in 1976, and they had five children. Though they separated in 1996, Mann remained devoted to his family. He enjoyed playing pool, watching football, and was an avid reader, living a secluded life until his passing.
His Last Moments
Mann suffered from glaucoma, which affected his work. On February 27, 2014, he went to work but never woke up, reportedly having a cardiac arrest in his office. He was interred in Otuogidi on April 14, 2014, at the age of 66.
Legacy
Mann Abali will be remembered for his gentleness, wisdom, and resilience. His contributions to banking and education have left an enduring legacy.
