ABUAD decorates United Nigeria Airlines, Cavista Holdings chairmen with honorary degrees

Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, the executive chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, donated a primary healthcare center and a solar-powered borehole to the Aso-Ayegunle community in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State. The handover took place on Monday, marking the completion of a corporate social responsibility initiative aimed at strengthening ties between the airline and the local population. The facilities are situated near the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport. During the inauguration, Okonkwo emphasized that the projects were designed to address specific local needs identified during previous interactions with the community. The initiative originated from an annual retreat held by the airline’s management team in Ekiti State in January. According to Okonkwo, the leadership resolved to leave a lasting impact on the host community. Following consultations, residents indicated that access to clean water was a persistent challenge and that a primary healthcare facility would be highly beneficial. In response, the airline decided to fund both projects. Okonkwo noted that the decision was driven by a desire to give back to society and to appreciate the support received from the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji. Construction began promptly after the retreat. Okonkwo stated that Governor Oyebanji approved the necessary logistical support within 48 hours of the request. Consequently, the foundation stone was laid before the airline’s delegation departed the state in February. To ensure direct local benefit, the airline prioritized hiring skilled residents of Aso-Ayegunle for the construction process. Okonkwo reported that approximately 90 percent of the labor force consisted of community members. He argued that such local participation is essential for ensuring that development initiatives yield tangible results for residents. At the handover ceremony, Okonkwo clarified that the donation does not signify the end of the airline’s engagement with the area. He stated that the company intends to continue assessing the impact of the new facilities and exploring further avenues to support the community as additional needs arise. The airline’s relationship with Ekiti extends beyond commercial interests, according to Okonkwo, who highlighted the strength of the bond formed through mutual cooperation. Additionally, he revealed that United Nigeria Airlines is working to expand its cargo operations to support Ekiti’s agricultural economy. This expansion aims to facilitate the efficient movement of farm produce to wider markets. Governor Biodun Oyebanji inaugurated the projects and commended the airline’s management for their gesture. He described the donation as a vital contribution to the development of both Aso-Ayegunle and the broader state. The governor outlined the operational framework for the new healthcare center. Under this arrangement, United Nigeria Airlines funded the construction of the facility, while the state government assumes responsibility for equipping it. The state will also provide the necessary manpower and consumables for daily operations. Oyebanji cited this partnership as evidence of the critical role public-private collaboration plays in governance. Oyebanji pointed out that the government cannot operate in isolation and requires responsible investors and organizations willing to contribute to public welfare. He noted that in the past four years, his administration has rehabilitated, remodeled, or constructed approximately 180 health centers across Ekiti State. These efforts aim to improve access to primary healthcare services statewide. The governor urged community members to take ownership of the new facility, protect it, and utilize its services effectively. He also encouraged traditional rulers and citizens to continue supporting government initiatives and private investors. He suggested that the development of the nearby airport should bring benefits to surrounding communities through increased employment opportunities. Separately, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, conferred honorary degrees of Doctor of Letters on Prof. Obiora Okonkwo and Niyi Olajide, the chairman of Cavista Holdings. The honors were awarded at the university’s 14th convocation ceremony, which graduated 2,194 students. The event attracted prominent political leaders, traditional rulers, and business executives. Among the attendees were Governor Oyebanji, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, and the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe. Other dignitaries included the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and former Governor Segun Oni. Governor Oyebanji recognized Okonkwo for his contributions to business and enterprise development. He also praised Olajide for his investments in agriculture, tourism, and other economic sectors. The governor described both men as accomplished international entrepreneurs who have complemented the state’s drive to attract private investment and accelerate industrialization. Specifically, Oyebanji noted that Okonkwo’s investment in aviation enabled Ekiti State to record over 10,000 passengers at the Ekiti Cargo Allied International Airport since commercial flights commenced on December 10, 2025. Regarding Olajide, the governor highlighted his commitment to the state’s economy through Cavista Holdings, the parent company of Agbeyewa Farms and Glocient Hospitality. Olajide has invested millions of dollars in the region, creating hundreds of jobs and transforming the agriculture and tourism landscapes. He is currently overseeing the transformation of Ikogosi Warm Spring Resorts into a world-class tourist destination. The governor ranked Olajide as the second-largest investor in Ekiti, behind Aare Afe Babalola. The Ooni of Ife also praised the duo, describing them as outstanding figures whose dedication to job creation and entrepreneurship merits recognition. The Ewi of Ado-Ekiti called for greater private-sector participation in the state’s development, urging more entrepreneurs to commit their resources to building the local economy.