Being successful is the desire of every living individual and to be successful, individuals need to always reinvent themselves in life because success is not defined by caste, creed, religion nor colours. According to John Wooden, “success is peace of mind which is a direct result of self satisfaction knowing you made the best of which you are capable”.

The above aptly captures the man of destiny, Chief Ikenna Kevin Okafor who was born exactly fifty years ago today and started early in life to distinguish himself as an outstanding individual both in family circles and among his peers by being self motivated, reliable, responsible and hardworking, while his simplicity was essential mark of greatness.

Chief Okafor who hails from Akwaeze in Anaocha Local Government holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from University of Calabar, Senior Management Programme from Pan African University, Lagos, Advanced Management Programme from Wharton University of Pennsylvania, USA and member Institute of Directors of Nigeria. Chief Okafor also has many professional qualifications and memberships. He is a Fellow Institute of Charted Accountants of Nigeria, Associate Member, Equipment Leasing Association of Nigeria, Member Board of Trustees Peter University of Nigeria, Achina – Onne 2020, and Director of Equipment Leasing Association of Nigeria 2022.

According to John Quincy Adams ,” If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more ,you are a leader “. This perhaps explains why Chief Okafor has occupied many leadership positions including member Governing Council, Lagos Business School Alumni Association, Zonal President, Southeast/ South -South, Lagos Business School, Alumni Association from 2010 to 2014 , current President, Senior Management Programme, Lagos Business School, Captain, Port Harcourt Club 1928 – Tennis Section from 2006 to 2008, National Public Relations Officer, Students Chemical Society of Nigeria from 1990 to 1991, member University of Calabar Students Association 1990 to 1992, Chief Scribe Dollar Klubb Exclusive University of Calabar 1991 to 1992 and President, Awka/Anaocha/Njikoka Students Association 1990 to 1992

With disposition to promote the welfare of others and build bonds of unity, Chief Okafor has remained strongly involved in improving the wellbeing of mankind and solving social problems because it is often said that those who are happiest are those who do the most for others give to others without expectations of receiving anything in return.

 

Written by Chijioke Ezeh

True to his belief that philanthropy is important because it has domino effects that promotes common good and give people a sense of purpose as well as high emotional health, Chief Okafor has contributed in various ways towards community and church development including building hostel for one hundred and fifty students at Community High School Akwaeze, Library Complex at Peter University Achina – Onneh, Maria Grotto at Peter University Achina – Onneh, Marian Grotto at Ukwulu ,Chapel of Pilgrimage Centre, Okija, building and equipping a one storey Science Laboratory at Akpu Seminary and many other facilities and cash donations to many institutions, churches, organizations and groups.

In recognition of his numerous contributions and achievements, Chief Okafor has won many honours and prizes including Paul Harris Fellow, Rotary Club International, Lion Club Five Star Distinguished Fellow, Best graduating student Department of Chemistry, University of Calabar 1992, best graduating student, Nnewi High School, 1988 and Zonal Champion ABS Quiz Competition 1988.

Chief Okafor has also received chieftaincy titles from various communities including “Ide Akwaeze “, “Ide Ezeani”, Dikenemereoramma Akwaeze”, ” Dike -ejiejemba Umuchu”, “Ebubedike Umuawulu” and “Chnyelugo Anaocha”.

These numerous achievements and contributions have touched many lives and made him a role model to youths and up coming generation.

Chief Ikenna Kevin Okafor is happily married and blessed with beautiful children.

Ide Akwaeze, Happy Birthday and many happy returns.