“He was not just my brother ,he was my best friend and our family’s guiding light.” – Mr.Emeka Ifezulike
By Akuma Ebere
In a grand farewell befitting a titan of industry and humanity, family, friends, dignitaries and associates gathered in Nnewi, Anambra State, to pay final respects to Engr. David Chidolue Ifezulike, fondly called Engr. Dave.
Late Ifezulike was a revered engineer, business magnate, and gentleman of uncommon grace.
He was laid to rest in his ancestral hometown of Ezekpunobi clan, Umuezu Umuanuka, Otolo Nnewi, amid an atmosphere rich in emotion, reverence, and profound gratitude for a life extraordinarily lived.
The funeral service, officiated by a host of priests and clergymen, echoed his deep Christian convictions and lifelong service to God and humanity.
The overflowing crowd of mourners bore testimony to the magnitude of the life he lived marked by humility, brilliance, and an unwavering commitment to progress.
Born 78 years ago, Engr. Dave was a man who wore many crowns as an engineer, an Executive Director, mentor, community leader, and peacemaker.
After joining Nestlé Nigeria Plc in 1980, he rose steadily through the ranks to become Executive Director of Industrial Development, retiring in 2006. His influence, however, did not wane with retirement. He went on to chair boards of high-impact organizations including Cutix Plc and Seaico Technologies, leaving enduring imprints on Nigeria’s manufacturing and technological space.
A fierce advocate of local content and economic self-reliance, Engr. Dave championed homegrown solutions in industrial development.
He was also an active figure in the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International Nigeria, and a proud member of the Anuka Progressive Union, Lagos branch—demonstrating his deep-seated love for faith and community.
His son, Mr. Ogugua Ifezulike, movingly described his late father as “a humble, gentle, and God-fearing man who lived wholeheartedly for his family and never wavered in his faith.”
The deceased’s immediate brothers; Dr. Eugene, Mr. Emeka and Mr. Ifeanyi Ifezulike, also shared powerful tributes.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr.Emeka Ifezulike said: “He was not just my brother ,he was my best friend and our family’s guiding light. He led with wisdom, loved with purity, and left a legacy none of us will ever forget.”
The brothers thanked friends, in-laws, and well-wishers for their immense support during the funeral and the preceding period of mourning.
Other mourners, including Dr. Chukwuemeka Mbajiorgu (Chinemele) and Mr. Akpaidiok, hailed the late engineer as “a rare gem whose legacy of love, unity, and quiet excellence will guide generations.”
They commended the strength and unity of the Ifezulike family, praying for divine continuity of the great work God began in them through Engr. Dave.
As the final prayers were said and the earth embraced his remains, it was clear that Engr. David Chidolue Ifezulike was not only mourned , he was celebrated. He was a man whose life story inspires excellence, integrity, and quiet leadership. His footprints, etched on Nigeria’s industrial and moral landscape, will remain indelible.
Indeed, he has departed, but Engr. Dave lives on , in the hearts he touched, the industries he transformed, and the family he led with boundless love.
