NJOKU MACDONALD OBINNA
Indeed, it was a heartwarming way of rounding off the year 2024 as Imo born serial entrepreneur, uncommon philanthropist and respected community leader, Nze Barr. Franklin Iwunze, alongside family members, dedicated his multi-million Naira state-of-the-art mansion to God on Tuesday, 31st December, 2024, after a memorial outing mass in honour of his late parents; Chief & Lolo Linus Osunkwo, at the St. Thomas Catholic Parish, Nkwerre.
The deceased; Linus and Esther of blessed memories, who died 27 years and 13 years ago when their children were much younger, would be smiling in heaven seeing the level of progress among them, the unity of purpose, brotherly love, peaceful home, and many beautiful grandchildren that God has added to the family lineage.
From a close observation, 2024 may be described as a turn-around year for the Imo born business mogul and established entrepreneur, Nze Franklin Iwunze (Ogbuagu Nkwerre), as he recorded a number of mind-blowing breakthroughs in business, international contacts, spread of business branches in Lagos and in the United Kingdom, powerful networking, projects execution, personal development and family growth, yet maintained his cool as a silent achiever.
Adding another feather to his cap, the business maverick- Nze Barr. Franklin E. Iwunze, built a tastly furnished mansion in his hometown, Umukalu – Umuko, Amanano Nkwerre in Nkwerre LGA of Imo State, which marks a significant milestone in the winning stride of the Iwunze family as they came from far and near to celebrate the festive season with their loved ones.
Dedicating the well furnished duplex to God; Catholic Bishop of Orlu Diocese, His Lordship Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Tochukwu Ukwuoma, accompanied by a galaxy of the clergy, offered prayers to God:
“Lord, send down your mercy and your blessing upon us here and upon this house. May your angel of mercy watch over it and keep all who live here safe. May he guide us into the fulfillment of your holy will, teaching us to observe what Christ has taught us.”
The soft-speaking but proactive Ogbuagu Nkwerre, Nze Franklin Iwunze, known for his entreprenurship, business acumen, and dedication to excellence, during an interview session with yours sincerely, expressed deep gratitude to God for such a remarkable day as his brothers and family members converged to share beautiful memories of their late parents, who died when they were still struggling to survive as young children.
In his own words, “God has demonstrated once again, as always, that he rules over the affairs of men and blesses his own at the appointed time, and we are here to return the glory to him”.
This statement reflects not only his appreciation for the achievement but also his acknowledgement of the source and divine support he received from God, as the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Dara Cajetan, during the memorial outing mass disclosed that then young Franklin Iwunze was also an altar boy; a mass server in his early youthful days in Nkwerre.
The state-of-the-art tastely furnished multi-million Naira mansion exemplifies luxury and sophistication, aligning seamlessly with Ogbuagu Nkwerre’s lifestyle of class, excellence and peace, in business, international network, and even among his circle of friends. The edifice, no doubt, is simply a classical display of luxury and exquisite with a perfect blend of finishes and furnishings.
Grand entrance area of the mansion features very prominently a staircase with impressive architectural design, spacious and elegant room downstairs for entertaining guests and relaxing with family; a dedicated room for watching movies and enjoying a cinematic experience. A stylish and well stocked bar area for entertaining guests and enjoying drinks while the well structured clean swimming pool is beside the building. Nze Franklin Iwunze, a true progressive, youthful and useful leader who truly loves Nkwerre as he did not only build himself a mansion but also constructed a 1km asphalted solid road for his community; demonstrating inclusive leadership which naturally runs in his DNA.
Ogbuagu Nkwerre’s entreprenurial journey has been marked by strategic decision making, innovative solutions, and a relentless pursuit of success. The acquisition of this mansion adds a new chapter to his story, symbolizing prosperity, continued growth, and a deep -rooted connection to his Nkwerre country home.
Speaking during a family interview session, the elderst brother of Nze Franklin Iwunze, Mr. Iwunze Ogechi, a successful London based businessman and development coach, said: “It’s a thing of joy that the family is celebrating the memorial of our late parents after many years of their demise as God has shown mercy upon us- the children and blessed them with immeasurable gifts”.
He also added that his younger brother, Nze Franklin Iwunze, is an illustrious son of Nkwerre and a pride to the family, thanking God for the scores of success he has recorded in his journey of life and business trajectory.
The colourful event was attended by his enlarged family, close friends, business associates, top government functionaries, political allies, ndi Nze Nkwerre, and numerous well wishers who came to celebrate with the family as they had more than enough to eat and drink as choice wines were also served all invited guests.
Media lens of this special reporter and PR expert spotted a number of dignitaries which included but not limited to; HRH, Eze Barr Dr. Chijioke Jeki Okwara, IV, Eshi of Nkwerre, Chief Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, Chief of Staff to Imo State Government House, Owerri, Nze Barr. Chinedu Anyaehie, High Chief Johnbosco Chukwuma Ozigbu, Ph.D, (Ogwuaga of Ogwuaga); (Oxford University, UK, Cambridge University, United Kingdom, Harvard University, USA), Ugwumba Uche Nwosu, a former Chief of Staff to the Imo State Government House, Owerri, High Chief. Engr. Chibuike Achigbu, Nze Chinasa Nwaneri, a former SA Special Duties to Governor Hope Uzodimma, Chief Tochukwu Unachukwu, High Chief Ambassador Dominic Egbukwu (Damaco) Akupe Mbano, Chief Kelechi Onuoha, Nze Barr. Briggs Amajuoyi (Akaekpuchi Onwa), Nze Arch. Alex Ozurumba (Anaeri Aku), Nze Chijioke Uzoho (Odokaraome), Chief Kelechi Onuoha (Aku-Amia), Chief Evans Okwara (Chyco), Chief Uche Onuoha (Don King), Dr. Moses Ayoka, among others.
Njoku Macdonald Obinna,
Media Consultant|Newspaper Columnist|Public Analyst|PR- Expert,
Publisher, 4th Estate Reporters
