Unveiling Philip Agbese: An In-Depth Look at His Background, Contributions, and Impact

By Dansu Peter 

Philip Agbese, an accomplished conflict manager, security strategist, human rights activist, and public affairs analyst, currently serves as the elected representative for the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo federal constituency of Benue State, Nigeria. He has an extensive background in law, strategic communication, and media.

Born into Agilaland's royal family on February 25, 1987, in Ado Local Government Area, Agbese embarked on his educational journey at LGEA Primary School Agila in 1992. After completing his primary education in 1998, he pursued his secondary schooling at the Federal Government College, Ugwolawo, Kogi State. His pursuit of knowledge led him to the University of Ilorin, where he earned a degree in Biochemistry between 2005 and 2009. Furthering his academic achievements, Agbese moved to the United Kingdom in 2015, obtaining a law degree from Middlesex University London, an MBA from the University of Chichester in 2020, and a master's degree in human rights law from Middlesex in 2021. He also holds a Diploma in Freelance Journalism from the British College of Journalism, London.

Throughout his career, Agbese has been associated with impactful organizations. He served at the Centre for Social Justice, Equity, and Transparency from 2012 to 2015. As a Principal Partner at Preventive Diplomacy in Geneva, Switzerland, Agbese has contributed to conflict resolution efforts. He established Global Amnesty Watch in London in 2015 and subsequently founded The Nigerian News Group, a media organization, in 2016. His influence extends to the realm of literature, with his contributions as an author of numerous books and articles, both locally and internationally.

Agbese's political journey began with active participation in student politics while studying in Nigeria. He held positions in the Senate and the National Association of Idoma Students (NAIS) during his time at the University of Ilorin. He entered mainstream politics in 2019 under the All Progressives Congress (APC). After securing the party's nomination, he clinched victory for the Ado/Ogbadibo/Okpokwu federal constituency seat in the 2022 elections, triumphing over contenders from the People's Democratic Party and Labour Party as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission in February 2023.

Agbese's legislative agenda reflects his core strengths and interests. He emphasizes defense, national security, education, human rights, communication, and sustainable development goals. As one of the youngest parliamentarians in history, he commits to championing youth interests and concerns.

Beyond politics, Agbese is known for his philanthropic endeavors, particularly in his constituency and the Northeast region. His contributions have earned him the traditional title of Okanga Agila in his homeland.