By Kelvin Ohoror
Today February 2nd, we celebrate Chief Engr. Dr. Goodnews Goodman Agbi, a leader per excellence, mentor, caregiver and source of encouragement and hope for many within and outside Isoko nation on his 64th birthday anniversary.
As one who has made huge impact through the years in the area of politics and academics, humanity, Agbi’s passion and belief in selfless services to humanity and a better society cannot be over emphasized.
As a leader, he has consistently demonstrated strength and have shown that ; ‘Courage does not always roar. Sometimes it’s a still voice that speaks loudly in actions’.
His ability to be consistent in application of both physical and mental energy positively in every given situation is indeed a requisite for great success which I believe he will continue to have.
His remarkable achievements in both Politics and Education and the extensive knowledge gained throughout his educational career that have impacted same to hundreds of our Engineering students speak volumes.
Chief Engr. Dr. Goodnews Goodman Agbi bagged a Bachelor of Engineering B.Eng. Civil from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Master’s degrees in M.Eng. Civil Engineering ( Geotechnic) from Delta State University, Abraka; Business Administration, MBA from University of Calabar, Masters of Science, M.Sc (Structures) from University of Lagos. Ph.D in Monetary Economics and with another Ph.D in Engineering (Structures) in view.
He is an expert in geotechnical mapping and his research on the causes of collapsed buildings in Lagos State have contributed significantly to the advancement of knowledge.
His academic prowess have received special acknowledgement. Grade 1 Distinction in the West African School Certificate and 2nd Class Division in his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering attest to his exemplary academic abilities.
He is a renowned lecturer at Delta State University, Oleh Campus whose vast knowledge in topics such as Strength of Materials, Advanced Structural Design, Structural Mechanics, and Highway Design has undoubtedly inspired and shaped the minds of many aspiring engineers.
He is a writer, who has authored several books on Structural Mechanics and Structural Design. These publications showcase his ability to communicate complex concepts effectively and contribute to the educational resources available in his field.
He redesigned the Lagos state water works to the construction of government buildings and water reservoir tanks, which demonstrates his practical application of engineering principles to real-world scenarios. He supervised the National Directorate of Employment projects. He designed several projects for NDDC in Delta State and Bayelsa State including Bridges attest to his intellectual prowess.
He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, FNSE, Fellow of the Nigeria Institution of Civil Engineers, FNICE, Membership of the Nigeria Institution of Structural Engineers, MNIStructE and Registered Engineer with the Council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria (COREN).
Beyond his leadership and academic prowess Engr. Dr. Chief Goodnews Goodman Agbi is the Okpolokpo 1 of Iyede Kingdom and the Okpobrisi of Oyede Kingdom. He is currently the Special Adviser to the Executive governor of Delta Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Francis Oborevwori on Project Monitoring/Audit. So far, his contribution to the Delta administration is impactful and lauded.
Agbi exhibited uncommon wisdom, remarkable vision, and exemplary leadership. I wish him peace, good health, and happiness. Congratulations and happy birthday!