​

Dominic Nwuzoru, who managed the late renowned Nollywood star John Okafor, widely known as Mr. Ibu, shared that the actor was immensely popular in nations such as Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Gambia, Gabon, and Botswana during his lifetime.

Nwuzoru highlighted that Mr. Ibu was a fervent patriot who frequently displayed the Nigerian flag as a gesture of his national pride and contributed to fostering peace and unity across the African continent through his comedic work.

In a conversation with the Nigerian News Agency (NAN) in Abuja on a Sunday, Nwuzoru recounted how Mr. Ibu's influence led to accolades and acknowledgments from various African authorities and communities. He emphasized the actor's role in portraying Nigeria positively worldwide, especially in regions that had been exposed to unfavorable stories about the country.

Nwuzoru recalled a memorable incident in Ghana where Mr. Ibu's performance brought together two conflicting tribes, leading to his conferment with the Chieftaincy title 'Malangula I of Tamale Land', symbolizing a peacemaker, with Nwuzoru being named 'Ngulala', the spokesperson for the peacemaker.

"In Botswana, he proudly carried the Nigerian flag upon arrival, countering the negative perceptions about Nigeria prevalent at the time," Nwuzoru noted, praising Mr. Ibu's ability to unite Africans and command respect akin to a revered leader across the continent.

Describing Mr. Ibu as more than an actor, Nwuzoru reflected on their bond that evolved from a professional agreement in 2004 into a deep friendship. He detailed their arrangement that allowed Mr. Ibu to engage freely in Nigerian cinema while Nwuzoru handled international showbiz engagements.

He shared experiences of their travels across Africa, where Mr. Ibu's fame was evident through the enthusiastic welcome from fans at airports, underlining the actor's significant impact beyond Nigeria's borders.

Nwuzoru also mentioned the universal appeal Mr. Ibu had, even among children in countries like Ghana, attributing it to his genuineness and unique style.

Mr. Ibu's influence, according to Nwuzoru, extended beyond entertainment, attracting interest in Nigeria from people worldwide, including the Caribbean.

The celebrated actor, Mr. Ibu, passed away at the age of 62. He was born on October 17, 1961, in the Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.