Elder Statesman and Political Icon, Alabo Tonye Graham Douglas, has announced his retirement from politics.
Speaking during the thanksgiving service to celebrate his 80th birthday, at the Royal House of Grace International Church, in Rivers State, on May 8, 2019.
Graham Douglas, said having contributed immensely to the development of Nigeria and Rivers State, in particular, it was time for him to focus his attention on serving God and humanity.
Reiterating that the inspiration he has received from notable Pastors including Pastor David Ibiyeomie, founder of Salvation Ministries, has influenced his resolve to embark on humanitarian activities.
He noted that he would within four years, construct a church, University, resort, and hospital.
Alabo Tonye Graham Douglas, who is also fondly called TOG by close allies, has served on the Board of several Rivers State Government-owned companies and Parastatals, he was Chairman of the Rivers State water glass Boatyard, Chairman PABOD Finance and Investment Company, and Director Rivers State Tourist and Hotel Corporation.
He served as a member of the Rivers State Executive Council from 1986 to 1989, as Commissioner for Youths, Sports and Culture. During his time at the Ministry, he organized the never to be forgotten CARNIRIV in 1988, when the Aggrey road was transformed to a mini Brazil samba like entertainment venue.
In 1989, TOG was appointed as the Honorable Minister of Social Development, Youths, and Sports, under General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida. so spectacular was his performance at the assignment that it ensured his stay at the Council, a body where his late elder brother and mentor Dr. Nabo Graham Douglas, had served as Federal Attorney General and Honorable Minister of Justice.
Alabo served in that capacity as Council member for over ten years and saw him work with one Head of State and Two Presidents, in four consecutive periods and four federal ministries, as Minister of Aviation, Minister of Labour and Productivity and Minister of Culture and Tourism.
TOG’s exceptional performance at these Ministries led to the formation of a Ministry of Women’s Affairs, overhauling of the National Youth Service Corp, the hiring of Clemence Westerhof, the coach who gave the Super Eagles a spectacular performance, which remains the best till date, the development of the federal capital territory vision 2020 and the deregulation of the aviation industry.
He played a critical role in the formation of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as the party was formed in his residence. TOG was a member of PDP’s BOT before his retirement from politics.
