High Chief Dr. O. B. Lulu-Briggs (1930–2018): A Legend Of Philanthropy, Leadership And Service
By Jerry Needam
High Chief Dr. Olu Benson Lulu-Briggs, OON, DCF, widely respected as Opuda — was a towering figure in Nigeria’s business, civic, political and philanthropic landscape.
Born on 22 May 1930 in Abonnema, Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State, he rose from humble beginnings to become one of Africa’s most influential statesmen and benefactors before his peaceful passing on 27 December 2018 in Accra, Ghana at the age of 88.
From early struggles marked by loss and hardship — including the death of his father at a young age — Lulu-Briggs displayed remarkable resilience and determination.
After an early education in Abonnema, Calabar and Jos, he began his career with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) in 1955, rising through the ranks to become Head of Industrial Relations at the Eastern Ports — a rare achievement for Nigerians at the time.
He also served with distinction in labour leadership, including as Chairman of the Maritime Trade Union Federation of Eastern Ports.
Upon voluntarily retiring from public service in 1978, Lulu-Briggs ventured into entrepreneurship.
His business interests spanned hospitality, construction, marine services and oil and gas.
In 1992, he founded Moni Pulo Limited, one of the pioneering indigenous oil exploration and production companies in Nigeria, at a time when oil exploration was dominated by foreign firms.
His foresight and boldness in retaining and developing oil licenses distinguished him among his peers.
Lulu-Briggs also made his mark in politics. He was a founding father of the then ruling National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and served as National Vice-Chairman for Rivers State and later Deputy National Chairman between 1979 and 1983.
During this period, he championed fairness, equity, and the rights of minority populations within Nigeria’s complex political landscape.
Philanthropy that Transformed Lives
Perhaps his most enduring legacy lies in his philanthropic and humanitarian works, institutionalised through the O. B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation, established in 2001 by his wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Seinye O. B. Lulu-Briggs.
The foundation’s programmes — covering health, education, micro-credit, entrepreneurship, clean water, and care for the elderly — have touched countless lives across the Niger Delta and beyond.
Under his guidance, the foundation provided free medical missions, built community infrastructure, awarded numerous scholarships, endowed academic chairs abroad, and empowered small-scale entrepreneurs.
Through its flagship Care for Life programme, indigent elderly persons receive care, sustenance and medical attention — a testament to Lulu-Briggs’ compassion for the vulnerable.
A devout Christian, Lulu-Briggs also made significant contributions to spiritual life and church development, supporting Christian ministries and providing instruments and facilities to churches nationwide.
He was honoured with the title Defender of the Christian Faith (DCF) by the Communion of Pentecostal Bishops of Nigeria.
As a cultural leader, he upheld Kalabari traditions and played pivotal roles in peacebuilding and reconciliation within his community.
He held esteemed chieftaincy titles, including Iniikeiroari V of Kalabari Kingdom and Paramount Head of the Oruwari Briggs War Canoe House of Abonnema.
O. B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation Honours and Legacy
Lulu-Briggs’ contributions were widely recognised: in 2003 he was awarded Nigeria’s national honour Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON); he received honorary doctorate degrees from Rivers State University and the University of Port Harcourt; and he held the Key to the City of Houston, Texas as an honorary citizen.
He leaves behind a rich tapestry of achievement — as an industrialist, philanthropist, Christian leader, and cultural icon whose life exemplified service to humanity. His legacy continues to inspire a generation of leaders and benefactors committed to uplifting lives across Nigeria and Africa.
