Iyke Agwu Marks 50th Birthday with N5m Donation, Party for Children at Ibadan Juvenile Facility

Matilda Omonaiye/

Philanthropist and Chief Executive Officer of Dav-Ric Nigeria Limited, Mr. Ikechukwu Agwu, popularly known as Iyke, has celebrated his 50th birthday in a unique way, by sharing the special day with children at a juvenile correctional facility in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Agwu, who is also the founder of the Ojeri Nkporo Caring Hearts Foundation, stormed the facility on Tuesday, January 13, accompanied by his family members, friends, workers and well-wishers, turning what could have been a private celebration into a memorable outreach filled with love, laughter and hope.

In a major show of support for the welfare of the children and caregivers, the philanthropist donated N5 million in cash, alongside relief materials including mattresses, bags of rice, yams, wheelchairs and other household items.

The birthday outreach also featured food, drinks, music and entertainment, as the celebrant hosted the children to a lively mini-party within the facility, creating a warm atmosphere of celebration and inclusion.

Speaking during the event, Agwu said he chose to celebrate with the children to reassure them that they were not forgotten and that their past would not define their future.

“I came here to celebrate my 50th birthday with the children in this home just to let them know that they are loved and their past does not determine their future,” he said.

Agwu added that rather than throwing a lavish party, he preferred to use the occasion to inspire others to extend kindness to vulnerable groups in society.

“I can decide to throw a huge party to enjoy with my friends and family but that is not who I am. I will encourage others to think of doing same. They need to know that people need money to uplift the lives of others,” he said.

In a glowing tribute, his elder sister, Professor (Mrs.) Angela Anya Chukwu, described him as a man driven by compassion and service to humanity, praising his selflessness and generosity.
She said Agwu had consistently demonstrated dedication to helping others, adding that he “lives for others” through his humanitarian efforts.

Friends of the celebrant also poured encomiums on him, describing him as a rare breed of giver with an unwavering passion for uplifting lives.

One of his friends, Mr. Abel, said he had known Agwu for over a decade and could testify to his consistent generosity.

“I have known Mr. Iyke for more than 10 years. He is a great man. He loves people and he is a philanthropist to the core. I will continue to pray for him to have long life and prosperity in all that he does,” Abel said.

Another friend, Mr. Tunji, described the celebrant as someone with “a beautiful soul,” adding that he goes out of his way to ensure people around him are happy.

“Mr. Iyke has a beautiful soul. He goes out of his way to ensure people are happy and he is a very generous man. May God continue to bless him as he adds more years to his life,” he said.

Staff members of Dav-Ric Nigeria Limited also spoke glowingly about their boss, describing him as a leader whose strength lies not only in business but in people.

One of his staff, Chidima, said Agwu represented a blend of professional excellence and genuine compassion.

“Mr. Iyke is a leader and a self-sufficient innovator. His forte lies not just in numbers but in people… He isn’t just a business leader; Iyke embodies a legacy of humble beginnings, steadfast faith in God, self and entrepreneurial acumen,” she said.

Another staff member, Gabriel, said Agwu’s heart of compassion was reflected in the work of the Ojeri Nkporo Caring Hearts Foundation, which he described as more than an organisation.

“It’s a manifestation of his commitment to social responsibility… Iyke’s story is not just about building businesses; it’s about building a better world,” Gabriel added.