By Henry Umahi
The story of Chief Kenneth Ifekudu aka Agbalanze Onyekachukwu na Ozubulu, chief executive officer, Diamond Leeds Limited, has elements of grass and plenty of grace. He attributes his success to “God’s grace.” However, he possesses such great intangible quality as focus, ambition, brilliance and determination to carve a niche for himself.
After earning a B.Sc in Marketing at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka in Anambra State, he went for Master’s degree in Business Administration at Enugu State Business School and another degree in Law at Base University, Abuja.
Ifekudu worked in the bank before entering into the world of business where he has distinguished himself. With his wealth of experience, which spans project management and development, investments, real estate, consultancy and general contracts, he has not only created employment opportunities but has also contributed to the growth and development of various sectors of the nation’s economy through his company.
The young businessman has exhibited exceptional business acumen by executing a number of outstanding architectural projects in the areas of construction, drilling, electrification, solar powered light, road projects and many others.
Over time, he has been recognised as an African Business Leader at the 2021 edition of Africa Value Awards. He was also honoured as Most Innovative Man of the Year in 2021 by the prestigious Motivational Awards.
In 2022, Eminent Magazine named him as one of the Most Influential Igbos alive. His company emerged 2022 Most Innovative Architecture Company of the Year in Leadership Excellence Awards by Igbere TV. In September 2023, the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers’ Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU) honoured him with the prestigious award of Man of the Year.
Also, Ifekudu has raised the bar of philanthropy. For over one decade, he has been empowering young people and widows in many parts of the country. These are in addition to several scholarships and free healthcare services he has undertaken.
He has been involved in massive infrastructural developments in Ozubulu community in Anambra State. The projects are construction of Obialigbo lock-up shops, erosion control in most affected parts of the community, road construction in Eziora Ozubulu and lighting up of Ozubulu villages with all-in-one solar-powered street lights. These have brought succour to the community that has been subjected to several infrastructural and ecological challenges.
Ifekufu, who is a recipient of the national honour, Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), is The Sun Businessman of the Year.