Renowned Nigerian media personality IK Osakioduwa has revealed that changing his surname from Obiara to Osakioduwa was a major turning point in both his personal and professional life.
In a candid conversation with actress and host Nancy Isime on her show, which aired on Saturday, IK shared that the decision was rooted in a moment of deep self-reflection that occurred during a routine visit to a military hospital in Ikeja, Lagos.
“My dad was in the army. There was something I needed to get treated for medically, and we went to a military hospital. You have to state who you are — whose child you are. I thought to myself, ‘I’m almost a full adult, and I’m still being identified as someone’s son?’” he recalled.
A Name, A New Identity
That experience sparked an internal journey for IK, who at the time bore the surname Obiara. Inspired by the biblical transformation of Jacob after wrestling with God, he began to seek a name that better aligned with his Christian faith and personal aspirations.
He discovered that his birth surname had spiritual connotations tied to a deity, prompting him to seek a new name with a clear Christian meaning.
“I started researching and found that ‘Osa’ means God, and ‘Ioduwa’ means God opens the door to wealth. That’s when I knew: now that’s a name,” he said with conviction.
A Four-Year Battle
Convincing his father wasn’t easy. IK revealed that it took four years of prayer, persistence, and subtle support from his mother before his father agreed to the change.
Since then, the name Osakioduwa has become a powerful symbol in his life.
“That name literally changed my life. My door to wealth opened,” he said, smiling.
Career Breakthrough
IK, known for hosting major shows like Big Brother Africa and The Voice Nigeria, has become a household name in African entertainment. According to him, his name change marked the beginning of his spiritual growth and financial breakthrough.
