Shekinat Abubakar
The story of His Royal Majesty, King Charles Douglas Jaja, is one deeply rooted in heritage, resilience, and distinguished public service.
Born on 27th January, 1959 into the royal lineage of King Jaja at the famous King Jaja Palace in Opobo Kingdom, King Charles grew into a leader whose influence spans education, business, culture, and traditional authority.
His early education began at St. Paul’s Church Primary School (1965–1967), after which he attended Government Primary School, Opobo (1970–1973). He proceeded to Secondary Technical College, Ikot-Akata (1973–1976), and later Government Technical College, Abak (1976–1978).
Seeking technical advancement, he enrolled at Shell Petroleum Development Company’s Training College in Port Harcourt between 1978 and 1979.
He later broadened his managerial competence at SANDOC Institute of Management (1979–1990), before obtaining a B.Sc. in Public Administration & Political Studies (Hons.) from the University of Port Harcourt (1991–1998).
His qualifications include:First School Leaving Certificate (1973).WAEC/City & Guilds of London – Electrical Installation Final (1978).Petroleum Industries Instruments Technician Certification (1979).Higher National Diploma in Business Administration (1991).B.Sc. in Public Administration & Political Studies (Hons.) (1998).
Chartered Member, Nigerian Institute of Public Administration (2007).Fellow, Pan African Business School (2016).
King Charles began his professional career with Shell Petroleum Development Company as a Petroleum Industries Instrument Technician from 1978 to 1980.
His career trajectory expanded significantly at P.S. Mandrides & Co. Ltd., where he served in several capacities, rising from Electrical Supervisor/Sales Representative to Senior Sales Representative and Assistant Manager in Port Harcourt.
He also served as Depot Manager in Maiduguri and later with the Nigerian Bulk Oil Company in Port Harcourt, demonstrating exceptional administrative and operational expertise.
In 2015, he was appointed a Member of the Board of Directors of P.S. Mandrides Plc conglomerate.
His public service portfolio includes membership in:Rivers State Technical Committee on Private Companies (2004).Nigerian Chartered Institute of Public Administration (2007).
Opobo Nkoro Traditional Rulers Council (2009).Within the Chief MacPepple War Canoe House, his leadership journey was marked by progressive responsibility:House Secretary (1988–2006).Port Harcourt Chief MacPepple House Family Union Chairman (1989–1998).
Alapalibo (Deputy Chief) – 2006.Alabo Designate – 2008.Installed as Alabo Prince Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja on November 9, 2009.
His passion for cultural preservation also found expression through the Mina Ogbo Kina Cultural Society of Opobo Kingdom, where he served as President from 1985 to 1993 and later as Patron from 2000.
On 31st December 2025, following the demise of his elder brother, the late King Dandeson Douglas Jaja, Prince Charles Douglas Jaja was formally announced Amanyanabo; the Treaty King of Opobo Kingdom.
His respected standing among traditional rulers is reflected in his referees: the late King Dandeson Douglas Jaja and King Edward A. W. Dappa Pepple of Bonny Kingdom.King Charles is married to Queen Boiya Charles Jaja, and their family includes Princess Daisy Ibalafa Charles Jaja and grandchildren Jason, Jayla, and Jayden.
Through decades of service and leadership, King Charles Douglas Jaja has emerged as a monarch whose life reflects honor, intellect, tradition and unwavering commitment to his people.
