Abia State Government Celebrates Distinguished Career of ACG Anugwa at Official Pulling-Out Ceremony in Umuahia

The Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, was on Thursday, March 19, 2026, represented by the Deputy Governor, His Excellency Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, at the Pulling-Out Parade held in honour of the retiring Assistant Comptroller General of Immigration, ACG Echefulam Louis Anugwa, at the Nigeria Immigration Service Command Headquarters, Umuahia.

Delivering the Governor’s address, the Deputy Governor described the ceremony as not merely a formal retirement event, but a celebration of a life devoted to service, excellence, and integrity. He extolled ACG Anugwa as a distinguished son of Abia State whose outstanding career in the Nigeria Immigration Service exemplifies discipline, diligence, and unwavering commitment to national development.

In his words, “Today is not just about marking the end of a career, but celebrating a legacy of excellence, discipline, and selfless service to our nation.”

His Excellency highlighted the remarkable journey of the retired ACG, from his enlistment into the Nigeria Immigration Service in 1991 as a Senior Inspector to his rise to the rank of Assistant Comptroller General. He noted that ACG Anugwa’s contributions, especially in driving digital transformation, financial transparency, and administrative efficiency within the Service, have left an enduring legacy.

He further stated, “ACG Anugwa’s career is a shining example of what dedication, continuous learning, and integrity can achieve in public service.”

The Deputy Governor commended the retired officer’s dedication to continuous learning and professional development, describing him as a visionary leader who embraced innovation and inspired excellence among colleagues. He emphasized that ACG Anugwa’s legacy as a mentor, reformer, and nation-builder will continue to inspire generations within and outside the Service.

He added, “Your life has proven that true success is not measured by rank alone, but by the positive impact made on institutions and the people you serve.”

On behalf of the Government and people of Abia State, Engr. Emetu congratulated ACG Anugwa on a successful and impactful career, noting that his retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with greater opportunities for community service and personal fulfilment.

In a goodwill message, the Senator representing Abia South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe, lauded the retired ACG for his meritorious service to the nation, describing his career as a testament to diligence, professionalism, and exemplary public service. He expressed confidence that ACG Anugwa would continue to excel in his future endeavours.

Similarly, the Comptroller General of Immigration, Mrs. Kemi Nana Nandap, represented by the Deputy Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service, DCG Azuka Harleyda, commended ACG Anugwa for his 35 years of dedicated service, highlighting his commitment, intellectual depth, and remarkable contributions to the modernization and growth of the Nigeria Immigration Service. She noted that his diligence and result-oriented approach distinguished him among his peers.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Comptroller of Immigration Service, Abia State Command, CIS Justina Nkechi Owe, described the occasion as a celebration of a remarkable career defined by leadership, mentorship, and service. She appreciated the Governor of Abia State for his continued support to the Command and reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing security and service delivery in the State.

In his farewell speech, the retiring ACG, Echefulam Louis Anugwa, expressed deep gratitude to God, the leadership of the Nigeria Immigration Service, his colleagues, and his family for their unwavering support throughout his career. He reflected on his years of service and urged officers and men of the Service to uphold professionalism, pursue continuous self-development, and maintain integrity in the discharge of their duties.

The colourful ceremony featured a ceremonial parade in honour of the retired senior officer and was attended by top government officials, including the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Homeland Security, Mr. Chukwunenye Alajemba; senior officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service, royal fathers, family members, friends, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate a life of service and enduring legacy.

Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State
March 19, 2026.