FUOYE Confers Onyema With Honorary Doctorate Degree

LAGOS – The Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), has conferred the Doctor of Business Administration (Honoris Causa) on Dr. Allen Onyema, Chairman of Air Peace.

A statement by Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, the head, Corporate Communications, Air Peace, said that the honorary doctorate degree was conferred on Onyema at its ninth Convocation Ceremony held over the weekend in Ekiti State.

The statement hinted that the honour recognised Onyema’s transformative impact on Nigeria’s aviation sector, his unwavering commitment to national unity, and remarkable humanitarian efforts.

The grand event brought together dignitaries, academia, and industry leaders who gathered to celebrate Onyema’s legacy of service, innovation, and patriotism.

The airline stated that the honour was not merely an acknowledgment of his business acumen, but also a tribute to his dedication to uplifting Nigerians and fostering peace across communities.

The convocation also celebrated other distinguished honorees, including Sen. Kanu Agabi and Chief Christopher Adebayo Ojo, former Attorneys General of the Federation and Ministers of Justice as well as Chief Olusegun Alebiosu, Managing Director of First Bank Nigeria.

In his address, Prof. Abayomi Fasina, FUOYE’s Vice-Chancellor, lauded Onyema for his philanthropic endeavours, particularly highlighting his selfless evacuations of Nigerians in distress, his innovative strides in the aviation sector that have elevated Nigeria’s global standing, and his patriotism in championing national unity.

The statement added: “Dr. Onyema’s journey to becoming one of Nigeria’s most respected entrepreneurs is a testament to resilience, vision, and purpose-driven leadership.

“As the founder of Air Peace, he transformed Nigeria’s aviation industry by bridging connectivity gaps, providing employment to thousands, and ensuring accessible and affordable air travel for millions.

“His contributions extend beyond business. In 2019, at a time when xenophobic attacks threatened the lives of Nigerians in South Africa, Onyema demonstrated an extraordinary sense of patriotism by deploying Air Peace aircraft to evacuate stranded citizens—at no cost. His selfless act earned him national and international recognition as a true humanitarian.”

The statement pointed out that through the Foundation for Ethnic Harmony in Nigeria (FEHN), Onyema has played a pivotal role in peacebuilding and conflict resolution, empowering thousands of youths with leadership and non-violence training.

His initiatives have contributed significantly to social cohesion and national development, the statement added.

In his acceptance speech, Onyema expressed gratitude to FUOYE and reiterated his belief in Nigeria’s potential.

He further urged students to embrace hard work, integrity, and a spirit of service, emphasising that education and entrepreneurship remained critical tools for national transformation.

He added: “Education should not rest solely on the shoulders of the Federal Government. The private sector must actively engage through investments, donations, and scholarships to foster academic excellence and innovation.”