Popular media personality IK Osakioduwa has shared the inspiring story behind why he changed his surname—and how that decision transformed his life.

Speaking on The Nancy Isime Show, IK revealed that years ago, he began to question his identity after reading the biblical story of Jacob, who wrestled with God and received a new name. This made him wonder what his own name truly meant.

At the time, IK’s surname was “Obiara.” Curious, he decided to dig deeper into its meaning and was shocked to discover that it had ties to a deity. “I started researching my own name. Then, I discovered that my surname is somehow associated with a deity,” he said. “I’m like, what does that mean? No, I’m a Christian. So I thought, ‘Okay, I want a different name.’”

This decision kicked off a four-year journey to convince his father to allow a name change. With quiet support from his mother and many prayers, IK finally got his father’s blessing.

He chose the surname “Osakioduwa,” which means “God opens the door to wealth.” Looking back, IK believes it was a life-changing decision. “That name changed my life. My door to wealth opened,” he said with a smile.

IK added that this process helped him step into his own identity. “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.”

His story is a powerful reminder of how the names we carry—and the meaning behind them—can shape not just our identity, but our destiny.