From Bank Security to Freight Forwarding: Meet Ifeanyi Onwuachu, the Man Behind Janksmay Group

For some people, success begins with privilege; for others, it begins with humility, hard work, and a willingness to start from the lowest rung. That is the story of Ifeanyi Onwuachu, the founder of Janksmay Global Services, whose journey into the maritime and freight forwarding world began almost by accident, and far from glamorous.

His entry into the industry was never part of the plan. As a young man fresh from secondary school, all he wanted was to earn a living and find his place in the world. Even though his father worked abroad (in Germany) and his family lived comfortably, he insisted on forging his own path. That conviction led him to an unexpected job as a security guard at the UBA New Market branch in Onitsha.

The role, though modest, became the foundation of the discipline, humility and courtesy that now define his life and business reputation. He handled the work with dignity and seriousness, earning admiration from customers and respect from colleagues. And while the job came with tempting daily tips, he never allowed the momentary comfort to mislead or distract him from his dream; he always knew his destination was greater.

As time progressed, his desire for growth drove him to pursue higher education in Chemical Engineering at the Anambra State University (now Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University). There on campus, he quickly became known for his integrity, charisma, and voracious reading habits. His shelves were filled with biographies of world achievers, which were books that shaped his mindset and aspirations. Alongside academics, he co-founded a music band, De Groove Entertainment, performing at weekends and gaining popularity among students.

After graduation, he explored different ventures, including networking businesses and others, until a call from his in-law opened the door to freight forwarding. Although the field was unfamiliar to him, his curiosity and readiness to learn pushed him to give it a chance. Once he got in, he immersed himself deeply, taking courses, acquiring certifications, and learning directly from an experienced mentor who recognized his honesty and potential.

Soon, he began working with high-end clients and handling complex shipments. His attention to detail and integrity further strengthened his reputation, opening even more doors. That steady rise eventually gave birth to Janksmay Global Services, a thriving firm with a strong presence in Nigeria’s freight forwarding and maritime sector. Today, he leads a growing team and prosperous firm, creating job opportunities and establishing a respected brand in the industry.

His frequent travels to countries such as France, Canada, Qatar, Dubai, Italy, China, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom have broadened both his horizon and his understanding of global trade, allowing him to adapt international best practices to the Nigerian environment. This global exposure, combined with his rigorous training, now shapes his approach to business.

To Ifeanyi, freight forwarding is not optional for anyone involved in international trade, but rather plays the same critical role a lawyer plays in the courtroom. He emphasized that individuals who attempt to handle shipping processes alone often end up losing money or getting their goods stuck due to lack of knowledge about customs laws, tariffs, documentation, and international trade regulations.

The Janksmay Group boss recalled cases where importers, in a bid to avoid professional service fees, ran into serious trouble with customs both locally and internationally. According to him, many traders mistakenly believe that importing ends with purchasing goods, unaware that clearance, valuation, logistics, and compliance are equally critical. Such mistakes, he said, are the reasons goods sometimes waste away in ports or remain seized indefinitely.

He stressed that a competent freight forwarder guides business owners through all requirements, from customs valuation and tariff systems to shipping documentation, enabling them to plan effectively and scale sustainably. He noted that several clients who started small grew into full-container importers within months simply because they understood the right processes and followed professional guidance.

Beyond the technicalities, Ifeanyi Onwuachu believes that freight forwarding is one of the lifelines of global trade, especially for Nigerian businesses seeking growth. With most raw materials and finished goods coming from abroad, he noted that no serious entrepreneur can successfully scale without understanding or engaging proper freight forwarding services.

Today, Janksmay Group stands as proof that honesty, humility, and determination can rewrite a person’s destiny. From guarding the gates of a bank to handling shipments across continents, Ifeanyi Onwuachu’s story is one of courage, reinvention, and an unflinching pursuit of purpose, a journey that continues to inspire many across and beyond the maritime industry.