Dibia: A passion for humanity as a JP

By Jerome-Mario Utomi

The revered title of Justice of the Peace (JP) is not purchased, at least not in Delta State. It is earned. It is conferred on individuals who have made remarkable contributions to community development, human capital advancement, and the promotion of peace and justice in society.

This explains why family members, associates, friends, and all those who know Jacob Ngozi Dibia and his deep compassion for humanity believe that the recent conferment of the prestigious JP title on him by the Delta State Government was deserving, proper, and fitting.

Indeed, the honour bestowed on Dibia recognises his exemplary contributions to community development, the maintenance of law and order, and the advancement of justice in the state.

Speaking about Dibia, a renowned security professional and international security consultant, readily brings to mind the reflections of American writer James Moore. In the foreword to Family of Secrets, a book by R. Baker, Moore wrote about the role of journalists in informing society about public servants and leaders.

According to him, “when an individual assumes a new office, his (or her) reputation, and what the country knows about the candidate’s background, is initially determined by the work of local and regional media. Generally, those journalists do a competent job of reporting on the prospect’s record.”

Because of his unassuming nature, Dibia’s quiet but significant contributions to societal growth and stability are seldom highlighted by the media. You will not find him trumpeting his achievements. As a result, little publicity has been given to his many good deeds to humanity, from his days as an officer in the Nigeria Police Force to his years of service and eventual retirement from Chevron Nigeria Limited.

It therefore behoves those who have witnessed and benefited from his generosity and commitment to the welfare of others to use the instrumentality of the media to celebrate his achievements and acknowledge this important milestone in his life.

To members of his community, the Church of God, and the many vulnerable individuals he has supported over the years, the name Jacob Ngozi Dibia resonates strongly. It is a name associated with humility, compassion, and selfless service. The Ubulu Okiti-born security expert from Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State is widely regarded as a man who believes strongly in giving back to society and using his blessings to uplift others.

Dibia is a rare individual blessed with vision and a clear understanding that success in life requires more than hard work. In a rapidly changing world shaped by technological advancement and global competition, he recognises the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement.

He understands that education does not end in the classroom; rather, it must be a lifelong pursuit if one is to remain relevant socially, economically, and professionally.

This philosophy was evident throughout his distinguished career spanning more than four decades. His dedication to excellence, discipline, and self-development enabled him to rise steadily through the ranks of the Nigeria Police Force before later transitioning successfully into the private sector with Chevron Nigeria Limited.

However, Dibia is not defined solely by his professional achievements. He strongly believes in the timeless principle that while we earn a living by what we receive, we make a life by what we give. This belief is reflected in his numerous philanthropic efforts and his consistent support for individuals, communities, and faith-based organisations.

His compassion transcends barriers of tribe, language, religion, or background. To many who have benefited from his kindness, he has been a channel through which God has brought hope and relief in difficult times.

He has supported educational opportunities for the less privileged, contributed to the building of places of worship, and provided assistance to those facing hardship. In many ways, service to humanity remains one of the defining principles of his life.

Personally, I have learned many invaluable lessons from Mr. Dibia. Of these, two stand out most clearly. First, true peace and fulfilment in life are found in serving and uplifting others. Second, every individual needs the inspiration and encouragement of compassionate people whose lives are dedicated to helping others rise above life’s challenges.

In my own life, I remain a direct beneficiary of his kindness and generosity. During one of the most strenuous periods of my academic journey, while pursuing a highly competitive scholarship to study at one of the most prestigious universities in the country, Mr. Dibia stepped forward with invaluable support and encouragement. Through his assistance, I was able to secure the scholarship and pursue my academic goals.

An African proverb teaches that when a child is carried on the back of an adult, the child’s legs should not be allowed to drag on the ground. In my own experience, Mr. Dibia ensured that my legs did not touch the ground. He provided encouragement, guidance, and support that helped me rise above challenges and move forward in life. That gesture remains deeply engraved in my heart.

A pathfinder and strong advocate of excellence, Dibia has accumulated over four decades of experience in the security sector across both public and private institutions.

He began his career in 1973 as a police officer, serving in the Crime Prevention, Patrol, and Administrative Departments of the Nigeria Police Force. Through diligence, discipline, and commitment to professional development, he rose through the ranks to the inspectorate cadre.

He was later promoted to the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) after completing the Officers’ Training Programme at the Police Staff College in Jos, Plateau State.

Before attending the Police Staff College, served in Benin City, Edo State, as Staff Officer (Finance) and also functioned as Vote Controller for the State Police Command. Following the creation of Zone 5 Headquarters in 1986, which then covered Bendel, Ondo, Anambra, and Rivers States, he was appointed the pioneer Staff Officer (Finance) for the Zonal Command.

He was later posted to Maiduguri, Borno State, where he served as Staff Officer in charge of Police Management Services. His final assignment in the Nigeria Police Force was as Divisional Crime Officer (DCO) at the Gamboru-Ngala Divisional Police Headquarters.

After 18 years of distinguished service, he voluntarily retired from the Nigeria Police Force and joined Chevron Nigeria Limited as a Senior Security Officer. During his nearly 24 years with the oil company, he held several strategic positions, including Security Supervisor, Operations in Lekki; Investigation Specialist; Coordinator of Executive Protection in Abuja; and Onshore Security Coordinator covering several operational locations in the Niger Delta.

In addition to his professional experience, Dibia has pursued extensive academic and professional training. He holds a Higher Diploma in Accounting and Financial Management from the Army School of Finance and Administration, as well as a Higher National Diploma in Marketing Management and Finance from the Institute of Marketing Management in Berkshire, United Kingdom.

He also holds an Ordinary National Diploma in Marketing Management from the same institution and received specialist investigation training for loss recovery and prevention from the Ark Institute in the United Kingdom.

He has also participated in numerous professional training programmes, including Supervisory Essentials Training in Warri, Security Coordinator Training at the University of Port Harcourt, and leadership and management training organised by the Nigerian Institute of Management.

Mr. Dibia is a member of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered), the Association of Industrial Security and Safety (USA), and the British Institute of Marketing Management.

Recently, Mr. Dibia was sworn in as a Justice of the Peace in Delta State, with the Chief Judge administering the oath of office to him and other distinguished recipients.

I therefore warmly congratulate Mr. Jacob Ngozi Dibia on this well-deserved honour. I also commend the Governor of Delta State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, for recognising and honouring individuals whose lives exemplify service, integrity, and commitment to humanity.