Media personality IK Osakioduwa recently shared the personal story behind why he changed his surname, a decision he describes as a major turning point in his life and career.
According to The Guardian, IK recalled a visit to a military hospital in Ikeja with his father, who was a serving officer in the Nigerian Army. During a routine name registration, he had a moment of reflection. “I thought to myself, ‘I’m almost a full-on adult, and I’m still saying I’m so-and-so’s son?’ That moment made me realise I needed to wake up and start building my own identity.”
At that time, his surname was Obiara. As he began questioning everything, he was inspired by the biblical story of Jacob’s name change. “I started researching my name and discovered that my surname is associated with some deity. I thought, ‘What does that mean? No, I’m a Christian.’ So I decided I wanted a different name.”
This led to a four-year effort to convince his father to approve the change. With support from his mother and a lot of prayer, he ultimately chose the surname “Osakioduwa.” “I know ‘Osa’ means God, and ‘Ioduwa’ translates to ‘God opens the door to wealth.’ That’s a name!” he exclaimed.
Reflecting on his decision, IK stated, “That name literally changed my life. My door to wealth opened.”