By George Ozalla
The family of the late Pa Newton Aaron Amie Igali has celebrated the posthumous 100th birthday of the distinguished educationist, chartered accountant, community leader and Christian faithful, describing his life as one devoted to selfless service to humanity and God.
In a commemorative tribute marking what would have been his centenary birthday on July 27, 2026, the family reflected on his remarkable contributions to education, public service, professional accounting and the development of the old Rivers State, noting that his legacy continues to inspire generations.
The tribute described the late Pa Igali, who held the professional titles ACCA and FCCA, as a man of vision and integrity whose pioneering accomplishments left an enduring imprint on society.
According to the family, Pa Igali distinguished himself as one of the foremost educationists of his time, serving as a school head teacher in the Yenagoa Province during the 1950s, where he was instrumental in shaping young minds and promoting quality education.
Beyond education, he was remembered for his role as an Ijaw activist and advocate for the creation of Rivers State. The tribute recalled that while in the United Kingdom in the early 1960s, he actively participated in campaigns that sought the creation of the state, demonstrating his commitment to the political and socio-economic advancement of his people.
His professional career was equally celebrated. The family noted that he became the pioneer Chartered Accountant from the old Rivers State after qualifying as a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in the mid-1960s.
He later served as the pioneer Chief Accountant of the Rivers State Transport Corporation in the 1970s before making history again in 1972 as the pioneer Bursar of the College of Science and Technology, which has since evolved into the Rivers State University.
The tribute further highlighted another landmark achievement in his illustrious career when he became one of the pioneer Fellows of the Chartered Accountancy profession, earning the prestigious FCA/FCCA status in 1980.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Pa Igali was remembered as a successful businessman, respected community leader and committed Christian worker within the Anglican Communion, where he devoted considerable time to advancing the work of the church and mentoring younger generations.
The family said his unwavering commitment to service, humility, honesty and excellence remains a guiding light for those he left behind.
“Today, as always, we remember Newton Aaron Amie Igali on his posthumous 100th birthday. You lived a truly worthy life of service to man and God and left a worthy legacy for us. Your service to man and to God continues to inspire us and lead us to greater heights for many generations to come,” the tribute read.
Describing him as “a gentleman of gentlemen,” the family added that he left lasting positive impressions everywhere he went through his exemplary character, compassion and dedication to duty.
They prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul, expressing confidence that his memory and enduring legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
“May you continue to rest soundly in the arms of our Lord. You are always loved and forever remembered,” the family stated.
