By Abdul Mohammed Lawal.
In many parts of Nigeria, people become popular by talking loudly or showing off. Many want to be noticed, but there are a few who earn respect quietly through action, kindness, and values they uphold, directly or indirectly, without making noise. One of such people is Mark Okpanachi Ogah, fondly known as “Okakwu”, a title to the strength of who he has become and the future he continues to build.
Among young people, he is called “The King of Boys”, not because he controls anyone, but because he supports, guides, and stands by them like a big brother. This is the piece I wrote a long time ago in honour of this “king”, and now is the right time to share it, with confidence in the old Roman phrase: “Veni. Vidi. Vici!”
From his ancestral home in Ibaji, to the historic town of Idah, through Lokoja metropolis and onward to Abuja, Mark Ogah has made a name for himself as a businessman who creates jobs, a kind giver who supports families, a youth advocate who offers hope, and someone who believes in peace and progress. What’s most beautiful is how he does all these things, not for attention. Most of his acts of service do not make it to the media, simply because he truly cares.
Mark Okpanachi Ogah was born in Idah, a town in Kogi State, Nigeria. He grew up in a large family as the seventh child of Chief J. O. Ogah and Mrs Mary Udienma Ogah. Life in a polygamous home taught him to be patient, hardworking, and respectful.
He began his early education at QIC Nursery and Primary School, and then moved on to Our Lady of Schools (OMGS), Idah, where he completed his secondary education in 1997. Even as a young boy, Mark was known for being calm, focused, and thoughtful. He later gained admission into Kogi State University, graduating in 2007. Afterward, he served through the NYSC programme in 2008/2009 at the Federal Ministry of Justice, Abuja. There, he observed how public institutions worked and became more inspired to support the country in his own quiet way.
After NYSC, Mark chose a path of problem-solving and job creation. He founded Anarock Global Services Ltd, a company focused on real estate, government projects, and property management. Through hard work and smart planning, Anarock became known for handling key contracts in sectors like agriculture, environmental services, and even assignments linked to the Presidential Office.
But he didn’t stop there. Mark went on to lead and grow other companies too, including Barger Consult Ltd, Mark Ogah Commercial Advancement Nigeria Ltd, and more. His goal was to provide services that support national development and to give young Nigerians meaningful opportunities.
Over time, these businesses have done more than make profits, they have empowered communities and given many young people in Abuja and Kogi State a chance to earn a living. That has always been part of his dream.
In his mission to expand his reach and support more people, Mark Ogah has made community development a personal commitment. He has helped individuals, groups, and rural communities in ways that truly matter. One of the most touching examples is his uncommon interest in handball development in Kogi State. He has supported young players to chase their dreams, not only to grow the sport but also to honour the legacy of his late father, who also supported the game.
His goal remains simple: to lift people up and help communities grow.
Mark Ogah believes strongly in the power of young people to shape a better Nigeria. That is why he continues to support youth programmes and promote peace wherever he can. He currently serves as Chairman of Arewa Youth for Peaceful Coexistence in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). In this role, he brings young people from different tribes, religions, and backgrounds together to talk, learn from each other, and build peaceful relationships.
He believes that many problems in society can be solved through dialogue, by listening, understanding, and speaking calmly. He has helped to resolve tensions in several communities in Abuja, especially where misunderstanding could lead to violence. For him, peacebuilding is not just about talking, it is something he lives out through both words and actions.
Because of his quiet but powerful work in business, youth support, and development, Mark Okpanachi Ogah has been honoured with several awards, both in Kogi State and across Nigeria. Some of the notable ones include:
1. Icon of Nation Building, awarded by the Northern Youth for Good Leadership and Governance, for promoting unity, peace, and development without seeking fame.
2. Pan-African Hall of Fame Induction, given by the African Union Students’ Parliament, showing that his impact is recognised beyond Nigeria.
3. Champion of Ethical Enterprise and National Development Award, by the Centre for Ethical Conduct, Orientation and Empowerment (CECOE), for his integrity and values in public and private service.
People who know Mark Ogah describe him as humble, calm, and focused. He is not someone who talks loudly or tries to be everywhere. He believes people should serve quietly, because, in his words, “why should everyone be talking when there is still so much to be done?”
Whether it’s helping a young person find their way, or supporting a project that will help an entire community, Mark does it with sincerity and respect.
As a friend, I can say this confidently: Mark listens more than he speaks. He takes time to understand problems and thinks carefully before acting. He keeps his word, avoids empty promises, and treats everyone; from government officials to local artisans, with dignity. These simple but rare qualities have earned him deep respect from businessmen, politicians, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens.
To many across Kogi East, Mark Okpanachi Ogah is a quiet force, someone who is steady, honest, and people-focused. He often tells anyone who cares to listen:
“You do not need to hold a public office to make a difference. But if it comes, it gives you a better chance to do great things. All you need is the heart to serve and the courage to stay true to your values.”
The future may still hold more for Mark Okpanachi Ogah, but one even now, his work is already defining lives and building futures. We say, “well done!”
He came.
He saw.
He didn’t shout.
He is simply providing, one solution at a time.
Veni. Vidi. Vici, but without noise.
