The founder of Iki Leads Limited and a major player in Nigeria’s wine and spirits industry, Mr. Innocent Ikechukwu Onwunali, has said his lifelong ambition is to contribute meaningfully towards building a better society for all, especially the less privileged.
The philanthropist made the remark while reflecting on his personal and professional journey, which has seen him evolve from a humble beginning to owning multiple thriving businesses across sectors including beverages, oil and gas, and fast-moving consumer goods.
“Humanity makes the world go round. For me, it’s not just about business success, but using what I have to positively touch lives and build a society that works for everyone,” he said.
A native of Imo State, the Lagos-based businessman and Lagos State Polytechnic (now Lagos State University of Technology) alumnus began his career at his uncle’s distillery, where he developed a keen eye for enterprise. That experience, he said birthed Iki Leads Limited in 2010, a company with over 200 direct staff and over 350 indirect workers.
Iki Leads is the manufacturer of popular beverage brands such as Meridian Cream, Polo Club Vodka, and Pasa Bitters. But beyond his industrial success, it is Onwunali’s humanitarian efforts that continue to attract admiration across the country.
A firm believer in education and social equity, Onwunali has awarded scholarships to over 30 Nigerian students at home and abroad. He also supports orphanages, provides agricultural input to farmers, funds medical care for the underprivileged, and backs Correctional Centre inmates with legal and welfare support, a commitment that earned him an award from the Catholic Bishop of Lagos.
“I strongly believe every child deserves a roof over his/her head, education, healthcare, and a fair shot at life. That’s what motivates my interventions across different parts of the country,” Onwunali said.
Onwunali’s business interests are vast and still expanding. He holds stakes in multiple ventures including Drip Solid Limited (makers of Drip Beauty Soap and Cream), Cubana Trade and Investment Ltd (makers of Odogwu Bitters), and Food Classy and Spicy Ltd (makers of Advance Chef seasoning powder). His most recent venture, Eastern Beverages Limited, is set to enter Nigeria’s premium bottled water market.
Despite his affluence, Onwunali maintains a low profile and remains rooted in Nigeria with his wife and three children—a decision he says reflects his faith in the country’s potential.
Onwunali is also known for his support of religious missions such as the Catholic Prison Apostolate and the Seminary of All Saints. He currently sponsors over 50 indigent Nigerians in various vocational skills training programmes nationwide. He insists that his success is guided by ethics, discipline, and respect for the rule of law.
