By: Agogo Igbuzo
The legacy of heroes is the memory of a great name and the inheritance of a great example, quipped 19th-century statesman Benjamin Disraeli, and in Nigerian philanthropic circles, no current name is greater and no current example more worthy of emulation than that of Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua 1. The CEO and founder of the charitable Medical Company Vebron Carre, United States is in a league of his own when it comes to loosening the purse strings for the benefit of humanity. For the billionaire businessman and head honcho of Vebron Carre, no price is too steep to pay for a better world.
Call him ‘jack of all trades’, and you may not be wrong. Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua- 1, is indeed many things rolled into one. But whatever way you want to look at Obi Ajudua-1, the medical expert and traditionalist, remains not only the doyen of medicine in Nigeria, but also, one of the country’s most influential figures alive.
In this exclusive chat with Agogo Igbuzo Crew through video Call, Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua 1,Ezeudo Igbuzo, a renowned philanthropist, businessman, and community leader whose selfless contributions — including the donation of a transformer, provision of boreholes, and empowerment of youths and widows — have transformed his community. He speaks about his motivation, challenges, and vision for a better society. Excerpt
Sir, can you tell us briefly who you are and what inspired your passion for philanthropy?
I am Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua-1,United States of America-based Medica Doctor, Industrialist, an Exceptional Entrepreneur, Academician,and Philanthropist, Ezeudo of Igbuzo Kingdom, the CEO and founders of the charitable Medical Company Vebron Carre, United States and Vebron Carre Foundation. I have always believed that success is meaningful only when it positively affects others. My passion for philanthropy was inspired by my desire to see my people live better lives — with electricity, clean water, and opportunities to grow.
As part of Verbron Carre Foundation’s Sustainability Community Projects Fund, Water is Life Project! Verbron Carre Foundation continues their philanthropic work in the various communities in Igbuzo, as they have built a standard Borehole in Umukwa-Umuodafe section of Otu uwolo in Igbuzo Oshimili North LGA, Delta State.
Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua and Obi Okpoho Vivian Henry-Ajudua are the Organization’s President and Vice-President,of Verbron Carre Foundation,whose foundation have been involved in humanitarianism for many years continues to make life easier and habitable for his people in Igbuzo. I know what it means to live without, so we vowed to use what we have to make a difference.
You have made notable contributions, including donating a brand new Transformer, sinking boreholes, and empowering youths and women. What motivated these projects?
The motivation came from the reality on the ground. Many communities suffer because of lack of basic amenities. When I saw that people were in darkness due to poor electricity, I decided to provide a new transformer. When I noticed women and children trekking long distances to fetch water, I provided boreholes. And seeing the struggle of young people without jobs, I started empowerment programs to help them become self-reliant. For me, it’s about solving real problems.
What specific impact have these projects had on the community so far?
The results have been heartwarming. The transformer restored steady electricity, bringing life back to small businesses and households. The boreholes provided clean, safe water, reducing sickness and hardship. Our empowerment programs — from giving startup capital to training youths — have helped many people become entrepreneurs. The joy and5 appreciation from the beneficiaries are my greatest reward.
How do you decide which projects to embark on first?
Before we start any project, we meet with traditional leaders, youth associations, and women groups to understand the people’s pressing needs. That way, whatever we do truly benefits the community. Listening to the people has always guided my decisions.
What challenges have you faced while executing these community projects?
Like every good initiative, there are always challenges. Sometimes funding is not easy because these projects cost a lot. Other times, bureaucracy or delays from relevant authorities can be frustrating. But I’ve learned to stay focused and patient because, in the end, the joy of the people makes it all worthwhile.
Empowerment seems to be a key part of your mission. What inspired you to focus on that area?
Beyond infrastructure, Vebron Carre foundation has focused heavily on empowerment programs for youths and widows every year. Through skills acquisition workshops, financial grants, and startup support, many have been able to rebuild their lives.
“Empowerment gives people dignity,” he said. “When you teach a man or woman how to earn a living, you’ve given them freedom.”
From tailoring and catering to small-scale trading and ICT training, his initiatives have transformed dependency into self-reliance. Some beneficiaries have even gone on to employ others — proof that one man’s generosity can multiply into collective progress.
How do you sustain these projects financially over time?
I fund most of the projects personally through my Vebron Carre Foundation, We also ensure transparency and proper documentation so people can trust what we are doing and be willing to support it.
Do you work with government or other organizations in implementing your initiatives?
Yes, whenever possible, we collaborate with government agencies and NGOs. Working together helps us achieve greater impact and ensures that our projects align with larger development goals. After all, development is everyone’s responsibility.
What has been your proudest moment as a philanthropist so far?
My proudest moments come when I see the smiles on people’s faces — when a widow can feed her family again, when young people start their own businesses, or when light returns to a community after years of darkness. Those moments remind me that we are truly making a difference.
What message do you have for other well-meaning Nigerians who wish to give back but haven’t started yet?
Start with what you have. You don’t need to be a millionaire to help others. Even the smallest act of kindness can go a long way. If everyone contributes a little, our communities will become better places for all.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I want to be remembered as a man who used his blessings to bless others — someone who lit up homes, quenched thirst, and gave people