By Valentine Ozigbo
This December 10 marks twenty years since the Sosoliso crash took my eldest brother, Engr. Collins Chukwuka Ozigbo. It is a span that feels long when measured on a calendar, yet painfully close when held in memory. His presence endures still — soft in its grace, firm in its influence, and inseparable from the person I have become.
As the first son of our family, Collins occupied a place of natural responsibility, while I, the last of seven children, watched him from a distance that never felt distant. He was a brother, yes, but he was also a guide, a mentor, and at times a quiet provider.
His life carried a standard that did not shout for attention, yet was impossible to ignore. He excelled with a steadiness that became his signature, culminating in his recognition as Best Manager at NNPC.
Observing him rise and lead with such grace lit a fire in me. His success never cast a shadow; it lit a path. From him I learned that excellence is within reach, that discipline is a virtue, and that whatever one sets out to do deserves the full measure of one’s effort. Much of what drives me today, from my work ethic to my values, was shaped by the example he lived rather than the words he spoke.
Nothing about Collins’ success was accidental. It was the product of discipline, steady effort, and a mind shaped by integrity. His achievements tell a compelling story.
In 1982, he earned the Federal Government Postgraduate Scholarship to pursue his Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at Cranfield University, a distinction reserved for a select few. Years later, the Nigerian Society of Engineers honoured him with the Meritorious Service Award in Ajaokuta.
His devotion to faith was just as remarkable, recognised with the Grand Knight’s Prize for his service in the Knights of Saint Mulumba. In every sphere of his life, he left an unforgettable mark.
Among the many chapters of his professional life, one stands out with particular clarity. During the NNPC Chief Officers Management Development Programme, Course 023, Collins set a standard that has rarely been matched. He earned every significant distinction on offer:
• Best in attendance
• Best in coursework
• Best in effective presentation
• Best in group project
• Best producer of individual project
• Best in overall performance
It was a sweep that spoke not only to talent but to the discipline and depth of character behind it.
These achievements earned him the Star Prize from the Group Managing Director of NNPC in December 2001, followed by warm commendations from the management and staff of EPCL the following year.
For those of us who grew up watching Collins, his life became a lesson in what steady commitment and simple integrity can produce. That, to me, is my brother’s enduring legacy.
In remembering Collins, I am compelled to honour the woman who has carried the weight of these twenty years with uncommon grace. His wife, Dr Chinelo Ozigbo, has been the quiet anchor of their home, guiding their children — Dr Chubby, Dubem, Dr. Ijeoma, and Engr. Ozioma — through seasons that would have overwhelmed many. The dignity with which she has walked this long road is a tribute to her strength, her faith, and her unwavering love. Our family remains indebted to her for the steadiness she continues to bring, a steadiness that has helped preserve the best of Collins in each of us.
Twenty years later, my heart refuses to dwell on the darkness of that December evening. I choose instead to hold on to the light he carried, to his inner grace that became a compass for our family, and to the many lessons he taught us on strength being at its best when it serves others.
Today, I also think of every family marked by the Sosoliso Airline tragedy. Our community is formed by grief, yet held together by faith. None of us chose this road, yet walking it has shaped our courage, our understanding of life, and our reverence for the preciousness of every moment.
Collins, while we carry the ache of your absence, we anchor ourselves in the promise that the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God.
As we remember you, we do so with gratitude, knowing that the God who holds your precious soul also watches over those you left behind.
Rest well, beloved son of God. Rest well, my beloved brother.
Valentine Ozigbo
Valentine Ozigbo, 2025 Anambra Governorship Aspirant, is Founder, VCO Foundation; Founder, The Valiant Movement; Immediate Past President & Group CEO, Transcorp Plc, and Recipient of Seven Stars Leadership & Governance Excellence Medal 2025