Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, has paid a heartfelt and glowing tribute to elder statesman, distinguished legal luminary, and former Minister of Police Affairs, Alaowei Broderick Bozimo, as he celebrates his 87th birth anniversary on January 21, 2026. The Governor's congratulatory message, issued in Asaba through his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, portrays Bozimo as a towering figure whose life exemplifies courage, integrity, wisdom, and an unwavering dedication to public service, peace-building, and national unity.
Born on January 21, 1939, in the Ijaw heartland of Delta State, Alaowei Broderick Bozimo has lived a remarkable life spanning nearly nine decades. His father served as the first secretary of the Western Ijaw division and later as president of the customary court in Bomadi, instilling in him early values of leadership and justice. Bozimo pursued his secondary education at Urhobo College, Effurun, laying a solid foundation for his future endeavors. He qualified as a lawyer and established the firm Broderick Bozimo & Co., where he practiced law with distinction. His wife, Rosaline Bozimo (née ?), was a partner in the firm before ascending to become the Chief Judge of Delta State, highlighting a family legacy deeply rooted in legal excellence and public service.
Bozimo's career trajectory reflects a seamless blend of legal practice, administration, and politics. He gained national prominence when President Olusegun Obasanjo appointed him as Minister of Police Affairs in July 2003, a position he held until January 2007 during Nigeria's return to democratic governance. In this critical role, Bozimo brought institutional insight, stability, and reform-oriented wisdom to the Nigeria Police Force amid challenges of post-military transition, security threats, and institutional restructuring. His tenure emphasized professionalism, accountability, and enhanced police-community relations, contributing to efforts aimed at strengthening national security architecture during a defining period in the country's democratic evolution.
Even after leaving federal office, Bozimo has remained a pivotal force in Delta State's socio-political landscape. As a respected member of the Delta State Advisory and Peace Building Council—inaugurated by Governor Oborevwori in 2023—he provides expert counsel on conflict prevention, early warning signs, and inclusive governance. The council, chaired by Professor Sam Oyovbaire and including notable figures like Dr. Chris Agbobu, Mr. Benjamin Elue, and others, supports the state's MORE Agenda by promoting peace, religious harmony, environmental protection, and sustainable development. Bozimo's involvement has been instrumental in fostering dialogue, nipping potential conflicts in the bud, and advising on policies that ensure equitable growth across Delta's diverse ethnic groups.
Among the Ijaw people of Delta State—one of the state's major ethnic nationalities—Bozimo stands as an exemplary leader. He has consistently served as a voice of moderation, advocating for dialogue, development, and unity rather than division. His leadership extends beyond ethnicity; he has bridged gaps across groups, earning respect from Itsekiri, Urhobo, Isoko, and other communities. In recent years, Bozimo chaired the Leaders and Stakeholders of the Ijaw Nation, rallying support for progressive governance and pledging continued loyalty to administrations that prioritize peace and development. His advocacy for fairness, justice, and equity has positioned him as a bridge-builder in a state where ethnic harmony is key to progress.
Governor Oborevwori's tribute underscores Bozimo's enduring relevance. The Governor highlighted how the elder statesman's contributions have spanned decades, from his ministerial service to his current advisory role, where his deep understanding of Delta's socio-political dynamics has bolstered peace and inclusive governance. Oborevwori noted Bozimo's exemplary leadership among the Ijaw, describing him as a moderating influence committed to dialogue and development, transcending ethnic and political lines.
In his statement, the Governor said: "On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I warmly congratulate our father and leader of immeasurable value, Alaowei Broderick Bozimo, on the occasion of his 87th birth anniversary. I join his family, friends, associates, and countless admirers in thanking Almighty God for His enduring grace, protection, and strength upon his life over the past 87 years. It is my earnest prayer that God will continue to grant him good health, sound mind, and divine illumination, as he remains steadfast in his lifelong commitment to service, peace-building, and the advancement of humanity and nation-building."
The Governor wished Bozimo many more years of fulfillment, continued wisdom, and impactful contributions to Delta State and Nigeria. This annual tradition of felicitations—from previous years marking his 85th and 86th anniversaries—reflects the high regard in which Bozimo is held across the state. His life story inspires generations, demonstrating how integrity, resilience, and service can leave a lasting legacy.
As Delta State advances under the MORE Agenda—focusing on Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security—figures like Alaowei Broderick Bozimo provide the moral and advisory compass needed for sustained progress. His 87th birthday is not merely a personal milestone but a celebration of enduring values that continue to shape the state's trajectory toward unity, stability, and prosperity.
