The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has honoured Barr. Grace Agha-Ibe, fsi, as she bowed out of service as Director of the Proceeds of Crime Department (POCD), describing her retirement as glorious and well-deserved after 24 years of dedicated service to the Commission.
According to a statement by the Spokesperson for the Commission, J. Okor Odey, the event, which also coincided with her birthday, was organised by the Special Services Department (SSD) in recognition of her immense contributions to the Commission and the department where she spent a significant part of her career.
Colleagues, friends and well-wishers gathered to celebrate what many described as a career defined by discipline, integrity and mentorship.
Serving as Master of Ceremonies, Mrs. Phoebe Eke welcomed guests and paid glowing tribute to the retiring Director, highlighting her strong teaching skills, discipline and unwavering commitment to ensuring that every officer under her supervision experienced growth and professional fulfilment.
In his welcome address, Director of SSD, Prince Hassan Mohammed, described the occasion as a celebration of “a great individual whose career is fulfilled.” He noted that Barr. Agha-Ibe was exiting service gloriously and that the department considered it a duty to honour her invaluable contributions to its growth and development.
According to him, the blueprint she left behind continues to sustain the department’s progress. He added that retirement presents fresh opportunities to serve the nation in different capacities and expressed confidence that her future testimonies would remain a beacon of hope. He also commended members of the planning committee for organising the event.
Delivering a goodwill message, Acting Director of POCD, Mr. George Lawal, described the ceremony as a truly memorable day. Having known her for 24 years, he summarised her personality in two words — “firm and fair.” He prayed that God would reward her for her years of service and mentorship and expressed hope that others would one day experience such a remarkable and honourable exit.
A senior officer of the Commission, Mr. Umar Babangida, recounted how she once handled a challenging matter with exceptional fairness and justice, leaving a lasting impression on him despite not having worked directly under her supervision.
Other colleagues echoed similar sentiments. Mr. Dozie Ihezue described her as hardworking and meticulous, noting that her work ethic was difficult to match, even though she readily acknowledged and rewarded genuine effort.
Acting Head of FID, Mr. Joshua Wakili, characterised her as tough yet deeply instructive, saying there was always a learning opportunity in every situation under her leadership. He described her as an expert administrator who constantly pursued excellence and imparted knowledge selflessly.
Mrs. Kemi Bamigbe described her as a no-nonsense leader with high standards, explaining that while tough moments were inevitable, they stemmed from her insistence on thoroughness and excellence.
Mrs. Alice Bolarinwa acknowledged that while opinions about her disposition sometimes differed, her mentorship and disciplined leadership significantly shaped her career. She added that Barr. Agha-Ibe was compassionate and caring toward committed staff and would be greatly missed.
Mr. Nonso Asiwa noted that she had no issues with officers willing to work, adding that those who engaged her closely often gained a deeper appreciation of her leadership style. He commended her passion for excellence and prayed for greater accomplishments in the next phase of her life.
Mr. Deolu Okunoren thanked the SSD for organising the ceremony and acknowledged the efforts of Prince Hassan Mohammed in making it a success. He described the retiring Director as a mother and mentor who built a closely bonded team and demonstrated strong understanding of public service and goal-driven leadership.
Ms. Favour Ubani also congratulated her, praising her discernment, attention to detail and consistent guidance, while reminiscing on their shared professional moments.
In her vote of thanks, Barr. Agha-Ibe expressed profound gratitude for what she described as an overwhelming gesture of love and appreciation. She described SSD as one great family and affirmed that she would always consider herself a member.
She admitted that the emotional nature of the event moved her to tears, revealing that behind her stern façade lies a deeply emotional person shaped by life’s demands to be tough in order to achieve set objectives.
Reflecting on her 24-year journey, she attributed her accomplishments to God’s grace, recalling her extensive travels across the country in the line of duty and the divine protection she enjoyed throughout her service.
She encouraged staff to remain focused on their primary responsibility — work — assuring them that diligence and perseverance would always be recognised and rewarded in due time.
Urging them not to grumble during challenging seasons, she emphasised that God’s timing is always best. “Your time will come,” she assured, encouraging steadfast faith and commitment to excellence.
She concluded by affirming her intention to continue contributing to national development even in retirement, noting that there remains much work to be done for the nation.
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