Celebrating Azubuike Ishiekwene’s remarkable spirit, generosity, and devotion to family and community on his 60th birthday. A true testament to friendship

[dropcap]I[/dropcap]n the world of African culture, giving is often viewed as a binary concept—material and immaterial gifts.

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While material gifts like gold and silver carry value, it is the immaterial gifts such as time that speak volumes about one’s character.

Time is a universal resource that transcends wealth, and this is the essence of Azubuike Ishiekwene, a man whose contributions and generosity have touched the lives of many.

As he celebrates his 60th birthday, we reflect on his remarkable journey and the profound impact he has had on friends, family, and the wider community.

Ishiekwene, or “Azu” as he is affectionately called by friends, has been a beacon of selflessness and hard work for more than three decades.

The bond between Azu and I goes back over 30 years, forged through journalism in Lagos. Despite the age gap, we became more than just colleagues; we became brothers, collaborators, and an inseparable team.

Azu is one of those rare individuals whose generosity knows no bounds, always willing to dedicate his time and energy to the service of others, often with no expectation of anything in return.

In a world where friendships are often tested by rivalry or jealousy, Azu and I have maintained a harmonious relationship for more than 25 years.

In Yoruba culture, we would be classified as “kori kosun,” an intimate bond that transcends simple friendship.

We have never had a quarrel, which speaks volumes about Azu’s patience, tolerance, and admirable temperament.

Azu’s generosity is not limited to words; it is evident in his actions. Whether it is offering professional guidance, lending a helping hand in times of difficulty, or quietly supporting those in need, Azu is always ready to make a difference.

His capacity to tackle numerous roles at once, whether as a business manager, writer, speaker, or mentor, is unmatched. Despite the heavy load, he always manages to give each task his undivided attention.

In his personal life, Azu’s story is one of dedication and commitment to family. His journey as a father and husband is as inspiring as his professional achievements.

Azu and his wife, Rume, have built a strong, loving family, and the way they raised their children is a testament to their shared values of hard work, sacrifice, and loyalty.

Their children have excelled academically, with Ashioma earning both her first and second degrees in Chemical Engineering, Meke studying Law in the UK, and Nkechi earning her PhD from New York University.

Azu’s devotion to family extends beyond his immediate household. He has been a supportive figure in the lives of his friends’ children, always offering wisdom, financial help, and a guiding hand in their education and life choices.

This level of care is rare, and it is no surprise that his children have flourished with such a solid foundation.

Beyond his family, Azu’s spirit of giving is also evident in his volunteer work. He has been involved in numerous charitable initiatives, such as the Open Fees NGO, which helps underprivileged children access education.

Azu’s impact is profound; his former gateman’s child is now studying medicine, thanks to Azu’s unyielding support. Azu has a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life, making him a true servant-leader.

Azu’s career as a journalist has earned him respect as a public intellectual. He has written extensively, and his work has shaped Nigerian media for over three decades.

Yet, his greatest legacy may be his ability to blend his intellectual pursuits with a deep commitment to his roots, his family, and his community.

Azu’s roots in Lagos’ Ajegunle ghetto, a place known for its strong sense of community and loyalty, have undoubtedly shaped his character.

This background has influenced his actions, and he carries the values of solidarity and service wherever he goes.

His life reflects the ethos of giving, whether it be time, effort, or resources, and it serves as a reminder that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in the impact we have on others.

To sum up, Azu is a man whose life exemplifies generosity, selflessness, and dedication to both family and community.