
By Aloysius Attah
For Chief (Dr.) Kelvin Onwuma Ayogu (Okpoke Ijike), life gains meaning through selfless acts of kindness and positively impacting humanity.
Through his Okpokodum Empowerment Foundation, the federal government-licensed auctioneer and businessman has transformed lives, brightened futures, and brought smiles to countless faces. His actions have left indelible marks on communities.
Uplifting Lives Through Empowerment
Recently, at Ogrute, the headquarters of Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area (LGA) in Enugu State, 33 youths from various communities in Enugu Ezike each received ₦300,000 to start businesses based on skills they were trained in, courtesy of Chief Ayogu. Additionally, five students who secured university admission were awarded full scholarships. The joy among the beneficiaries was palpable.
Speaking at the cheque presentation ceremony, the Chairman of Igbo-Eze North LGA, Hon. Uche Michael Ogalla, represented by his Vice Chairman, Hon. Joe Abba-Idenyi, expressed pride in the Okpokodum Foundation’s efforts.
“The Uche Ogalla administration and Enugu State Government are proud of Chief Okpoke Ijike for empowering our people to excel in various endeavors. His efforts complement the government’s vision of improving lives, and we pledge our support to him,” he said.
The Chairman highlighted the administration’s recent skills acquisition program, emphasizing that private individuals, like Chief Ayogu, are key to complementing government efforts in tackling unemployment.
A Legacy of Giving
The Traditional Ruler of Umuopu community and Chairman of Igbo-Eze North Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Cyril Okechukwu Ayogu, commended Chief Ayogu for his consistent philanthropic efforts.
“This is a man who has been helping people since his youth. Beyond financial empowerment, he has sponsored education, paid hospital bills, and supported the less privileged. My prayer is that God continues to bless and enlarge his capacity to do more,” Igwe Ayogu stated.
He also linked Chief Ayogu’s goodwill to the blessings of leadership under Governor Peter Mbah and the LGA Chairman, Uche Ogalla, saying their exemplary leadership inspires such acts of generosity.
Transforming Youths Through Opportunity
Ogili Chiedozie, Vice Chairman of Igbo-Eze North Youths, commended Chief Ayogu for his commitment to the progress of young people.
“Dr. Kelvin Ayogu has set an example for others to follow. He has proven that having wealth is not enough; the heart to give is what matters. His efforts will inspire a new generation of youths,” Ogili remarked.
Dr. Desmond Elugu, Chairman of the Screening Committee for beneficiaries, revealed the rigorous selection process. He praised Chief Ayogu for funding the initiative, even when the number of applicants exceeded expectations.
“We conducted both online and offline screenings, including background checks, to ensure fairness. Chief Ayogu’s willingness to expand the number of beneficiaries shows his genuine commitment to youth development,” Dr. Elugu said.
Stories of Gratitude
The beneficiaries shared heartfelt gratitude for the life-changing support.
Peace Omeje, who lost a leg to paralysis after a childhood injection, expressed her joy. With her new funding, she plans to set up a hairdressing and makeup studio. “Okpoko appeared like a miracle in my life. May God bless him abundantly,” she said.
For Nnabuike Ezeh from Umuogbo-Agu, a dream of owning a digital camera for his photography business has come true. “This gesture will reduce crime by engaging idle youths. If we have ten more people like Okpoko, our community will thrive,” he said.
The scholarship beneficiaries included Chibuikem Mamah (Pharmacy, University of Nigeria Nsukka), Daniel Chimezie Eze (Civil Engineering, University of Ilorin), and Ogbu Chiamaka (Nursing, University of Nigeria Nsukka).
Beyond Education and Business
Chief Ayogu’s impact extended to medical bill payments during Christmas and New Year, freeing patients stranded in hospitals due to unpaid bills. Beneficiaries included patients at St. Anthony Hospital, New Testament Hospital, and Kaetochukwu Hospital.
At St. John’s Hospital, two patients, Ngozi Mama and Kenneth Abugu, burst into tears of joy when their bills, totaling ₦486,390 and ₦666,650, respectively, were settled.
A Man of Humility
Despite his numerous contributions, Chief Kelvin Ayogu humbly declined extensive interviews, stating:
“I’m not a politician, and this is not for selfish interests. My goal is to help youths succeed and build a better society. I hope those empowered today will grow to empower others tomorrow. That’s how society progresses.”
Chief Ayogu’s actions through the Okpokodum Foundation continue to inspire hope and foster positive change in Enugu communities.
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