Falcon Managing Director Ezigbo Retires After 31 Years of Service

By Genevieve Aningo

Professor Joseph Chukwurah Ezigbo, the co-founder and Managing Director of Falcon Corporation Limited has retired after 35 years of service to the company. The company has celebrated the retirement of Prof. Ezigbo at a ceremony held in Lagos recently.

Speaking at the ceremony in Lagos, covered by The Energy Republic, Ezigbo reflected on the humble beginnings of the company, recalling how Falcon started in 1994 with little capital but a strong belief in purpose and possibility. He told guests that the company’s early days were marked by faith, resilience, and an unshakable belief that growth was inevitable.

“I look back to 31 years ago when we opened a small office in Port Harcourt. Three months later, we were served a tax bill of N58 million for a company that was not even worth N50,000 at the time,” Ezigbo said. “But we believed in big dreams. We knew we were on the right path and I kept telling myself that nothing is impossible.”

Ezigbo noted that Falcon’s development was not without difficulties and characterized his journey as being driven by perseverance. He said that the foundation built over the years will outlive him and that the company’s survival was due to resiliency, humility, and a strong sense of purpose.

He thanked the employees, partners, and friends who have supported the business over the years, stating that their help enabled Falcon to become a reputable brand in the energy industry. He exhorted them to hold on, emphasizing that perseverance and consistency will continue to be the cornerstones of long-term success.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Audrey Joe-Ezigbo called the event historic and emotional in her remarks, pointing out that Professor Ezigbo’s retirement signaled the end of a pivotal period for the business.

Speaking further, she stated that Ezigbo’s leadership style—which she characterized as compassionate, approachable, and service-oriented—helped mold the organization’s culture and won him respect in the business.

Audrey pointed out that although Prof Ezigbo’s retirement signaled the end of one chapter, it also marked the start of a new one. According to her, the business is now moving into a new phase of development that will concentrate on growing throughout the gas value chain, bolstering infrastructure, and enhancing its position in Nigeria’s energy revolution.

Ezigbo’s legacy will continue to direct the organization, she said, describing the shift as a link between the company’s past successes and its future goals.