The community of Nnewi mourns the loss of Engr. Dr. (Chief) Ajulu Gilbert Uzodike, a pioneering industrialist and philanthropist. Known affectionately as Oziụzọ Nnewi, Uzodike’s contributions to his community and country have left an indelible mark.
A neighbor and close friend, Ikenga Ezenwegbu, remembers Uzodike as a man of extraordinary generosity and vision. “You were my brother, a friend, and an exemplary neighbor,” Ezenwegbu recalls. Uzodike’s community spirit was exemplified when he installed a massive generator at his mansion in Nnewi, providing free electricity to his neighbors.
Uzodike’s entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond his personal life. He established world-class industrial companies in Nnewi, providing employment and fostering management talent among local residents. His companies, including the well-known Cutix Plc, were listed on the Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE), a testament to his forward-thinking approach.
In their last conversation, Uzodike discussed plans to encourage more Nnewi entrepreneurs to list their companies on the NSE. He was slated to speak at a seminar on “Transfer of Generational Wealth in the South East,” organized by Ezenwegbu, on December 22, 2023. Unfortunately, a medical emergency necessitated a trip to the USA, from which he never returned. Even in his absence, he contributed to the seminar by sending his prepared speech.
Uzodike’s generosity was not limited to business. He extended his hospitality during personal milestones, such as hosting guests for Ezenwegbu’s mother’s funeral in 2018 and attending the funeral of Ezenwegbu’s mother-in-law in October 2023. His presence was a constant source of support.
Ezenwegbu fondly recalls their intellectual debates on politics, economy, and culture. “You were unassuming, humble, a talent hunter, and a secret benefactor to many,” he reflects. Uzodike’s unique approach set him apart from other Nnewi billionaires, marked by his foresight, judgment, and solution-oriented mindset.
Uzodike’s achievements cannot be solely attributed to his wartime experience or his academic credentials from Harvard. Ezenwegbu believes he was destined to make a difference. “We, your brothers, neighbors, and friends, can testify to your greatness,” he asserts.
While acknowledging Uzodike’s human imperfections, Ezenwegbu emphasizes that his positives far outweighed his negatives. Uzodike’s death coincided with the loss of Ezenwegbu’s eldest sister, making it a particularly devastating week for their community.
As Nnewi bids farewell to a beloved son, Ezenwegbu offers a poignant tribute: “May God forgive your imperfections and welcome you into Paradise. Nnewi loves you and will always remember you. I will always do.”
By Ikenga Ezenwegbu
 Ajulu Gilbert Uzodike){kind=link}
