ABOUT
High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi
A Journey of Vision, Leadership, and Service
High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi FNIIS, FNSE, is a distinguished Nigerian engineer, public administrator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a strategic leader whose influence spans business, community development, and national service. His life story is one of resilience, purpose, and unwavering commitment to the progress of the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.
Respected across cultural and professional circles, High Chief Kestin holds several traditional titles in recognition of his contributions to society. He is the Ibe Benimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, the Dikeremowei of Ogulagha Kingdom, the Ibe Dubamowei of Olodiama Kingdom, and the Owena of Ozoro Kingdom. These honours reflect the deep trust and admiration he has earned from communities across Niger Delta.
Humble Beginnings, Enduring Values
Born in the late 1970s in Ikpokpo Community, Gbaramatu Kingdom, High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi is a testament to resilience and visionary leadership.
From an early age, he understood the challenges faced by his people—economic hardship, limited opportunities, and environmental struggles. Undeterred by these existential realities, his experiences shaped his resolve to pursue excellence and contribute meaningfully to society.
Rooted in strong family and community values, he developed a deep sense of responsibility toward his people. Today, he stands as an inspiring example of what determination, discipline, and vision can achieve.
Education: Building the Foundation
High Chief Kestin began his formal education at Ikpere Primary School, Ugborodo. Despite the uncertainties of Nigeria’s military era, he remained focused on his academic goals, attending secondary schools across different locations before advancing to higher education.
Driven by a passion for engineering and problem-solving, he gained admission into the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Civil Engineering. Years later, recognising the importance of administrative and leadership skills, he obtained a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Benin.
This combination of technical expertise and managerial knowledge became the foundation for his diverse and impactful professional career.
Professional Growth and Leadership
High Chief Kestin’s career is marked by steady progress, strategic thinking, and excellence. Between 1999 and 2006, he served as General Manager and later Managing Director of Tompolo Nigeria Limited. During this period, he successfully balanced professional responsibilities with academic advancement—an early indication of his exceptional leadership capacity.
In 2005, he became one of the founding directors of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and was appointed Managing Director. Under his guidance, the company grew into a key player in Nigeria’s oil and gas security sector, playing a crucial role in protecting national assets and reducing crude oil theft in the Niger Delta.
The effectiveness of Tantita’s operations has been widely acknowledged, contributing significantly to improved oil production and renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s petroleum industry. This achievement stands as one of High Chief Kestin most notable contributions to national development.
Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development
Beyond security services, High Chief Kestin Pondi has established and led several successful companies, each focused on solving real problems and creating value.
In 2006, he founded Ponkebi Nigeria Limited, a labour administration company that earned national recognition for excellence. The firm played a critical role in the Escravos Gas-to-Liquids (EGTL) Project and received multiple commendations for outstanding performance.
In 2007, he expanded into marine logistics with Muhaabix Global Services Limited, a company that has consistently delivered high-quality services to Chevron Nigeria Limited. Known for strict adherence to safety and operational standards, Muhaabix has maintained a strong reputation in the oil and gas industry.
His entrepreneurial vision further extended to Kalm Marine and Petroleum Services Limited, which earned the confidence of the Federal Government and secured Petroleum Prospecting Licence (PPL) 213. Through these ventures, High Chief Kestin has contributed to job creation, industrial growth, and economic stability in the Niger Delta.
Areas of Expertise
Over decades of hands-on experience, High Chief Pondi has developed deep competence in key professional fields, including:
Public Administration
Security Management
Business Administration
Strategic Planning and Partnerships
Corporate Governance
Security Risk Management
Project Management
These areas of expertise have enabled him to lead complex organisations, manage large-scale operations, and deliver results in challenging environments.
Professional Recognition and Affiliations
High Chief Kestin’s professional credibility is reinforced by numerous certifications and honors. He is a COREN-certified engineer, a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE), and a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute for Industrial Security (FNIIS). In addition, he serves as an Assistant Corps Commander in the Nigerian Legion Corps of Commissionaires, Delta State Command.
These affiliations reflect his commitment to professionalism, ethics, and continuous development.
A Commitment to Humanity
Beyond business and professional achievements, High Chief Kestin is deeply devoted to the welfare of his people. Across communities in the Niger Delta, he has supported initiatives focused on education, youth empowerment, infrastructure development, and social stability.
His philanthropic efforts have touched countless lives, reinforcing his belief that true leadership is measured by the positive impact one makes on others.
Family and Personal Life
Despite his many responsibilities, High Chief Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi remains grounded in family values. He is happily married and blessed with seven children. His personal life reflects the same principles that define his public service—faith, discipline, humility, and dedication.
A Legacy of Purpose
High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi embodies the ideals of service, resilience, and visionary leadership. From humble beginnings in a small Niger Delta village, he has grown into a national figure whose work continues to inspire hope and progress.
His journey is far from over. With every initiative he leads and every community he uplifts, he reinforces a lasting legacy—one built on integrity, impact, and an enduring commitment to a better future.