Ikemefuna Patrick “Ickey’ Ekwonu or simply called Ikem Ekwonu is overall selection number six of the 2022 NFL Draft. He plays as an offensive tackle and was picked by the Carolina Panthers in the draft. He seems like a likely fit for the Panthers as they played spinning tops at left tackle last season. Ikem Ekwonu attended North Carolina State University and started as the left guard for the football team from his sophomore season. He was named as the best blocker in the ACC and received a unanimous All-American selection. The offensive lineman is slated to sign a four-year deal with the Carolina Panthers, worth $27.5 million. The rookie contract will be fully guaranteed and include a fifth year option as well.
Who are Ikem Ekwonu’s Parents?
Ikem Ekwonu was born to Tagbo Ekwonu and Amaka Ekwonu on 31st October, 2000 in North Carolina. He is one of four children of Tagbo and Amaka. Tagbo and Amaka Ekwonu met in England after migrating from Nigeria to escape the horrific Biafran War. They moved to the United States of America during the 1980s. Tagbo and Amaka Ekwonu raised all four of their children in Charlotte, North Carolina. Ikem Ekwonu has an identical twin brother Osita. Ikem Ekwonu also has an elder brother and an elder sister. Tagbo and Amaka Ekwonu encouraged their children to follow their passions and cheered for them during games.
Who is Ikem Ekwonu’s Mother?
Amaka Ekwonu
From the left: Adaora Ekwonu (sister) and Amaka Ekwonu (mother)
Amaka Ekwonu is Ikem’s mother and met her husband Tagbo in England. She oversees their family-owned operation in Charlotte, North Carolina. Amaka Ekwonu used to be an athlete in Nigeria and Ikem Ekwonu has clearly inherited the athlete genes from his mother. Amak Ekwonu was a standout track and field athlete in high school and specialized in sprinting. She has been a constant supporter of Ikem Ekwonu in his football journey.
Who is Ikem Ekwonu’s Father?
Tagbo Ekwonu
Amaka Ekwonu (left) and Tagbo Ekwonu (right)
Tagbo Ekwonu is Ikem’s father. He is a physician who emigrated to England from Nigeria, and then to America. Tagbo Ekwonu used to be a star athlete at the University level in Nigeria. Tagbo Ekwonu played basketball and his athletic background helped him instill athletic values to his children. Tagbo spent a lot of time with Ikem and taught him about the fundamentals of athletics and other aspects of life too.
What Nationality are Ikem Ekwonu’s Parents?
Ikem Ekwonu’s parents are originally from Nigeria. They come from the eastern region of Nigeria, from the third largest ethnic group called the Igbo. They escaped the horrific Biafran war in the country and emigrated to England. Tagba and Amaka Ekwonu met in England but all of their children were born in America.
Ikem Ekwonu Parents
Does Ikem Ekwonu’s family support him?
Ikem Ekwonu cites his family as his biggest support system and he has always felt strong with them in his corner. Ikem has always been supported by his siblings in pursuing football as a career and his twin brother Osita also joined him in the football dream and even played for Notre Dame in the college level. Amaka Ekwonu and Tagba Ekwonu have always turned up at their son’s games and showed full support for him throughout.