BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
In a stirring demonstration of patriotism and commitment to Nigeria’s progress, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, the Chairman of Air Peace, has donated N50 million to the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) College Project.
The announcement came during the grand fundraising and groundbreaking ceremony at the Armed Forces Officers Mess, Maitama, Abuja.
Speaking at the event where he served as co-launcher, Dr. Onyema delivered a compelling message rooted in national unity, empowerment, and the urgent need to invest in Nigeria’s future.
He praised the DEPOWA College initiative as a bold step toward transformative education and sustainable nation-building.
“This is not just about bricks and mortar,” Onyema declared. “It is about shaping the minds of young Nigerians who will become leaders, innovators, and agents of positive change.
As we lay the first stone of the DEPOWA College, we must understand that we are building a brighter tomorrow—one that empowers our youth to create solutions, inspire others, and contribute meaningfully to our nation and the world.”
Dr. Onyema described the college as “a beacon of hope” that will uplift families of Nigeria’s military and police personnel.
He lauded DEPOWA for its longstanding impact in advancing the welfare of service members’ families through education, skill development, and humanitarian support.
The college, he said, will be equipped with state-of-the-art classrooms, science laboratories, vocational training hubs, and creative innovation spaces tailored to meet the demands of the 21st century.
In a heartfelt gesture, Onyema pledged N50 million on behalf of Air Peace and called on Nigerians to join in the effort to bring the vision to life. “No matter how little, every contribution counts. This project is a legacy we are all building together,” he said.
“We at Air Peace are fully aware of the immense sacrifices made daily by the men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces. This is our way of giving back to the families of these national heroes.”
Mrs. Oghogho Gwabin Musa, President of DEPOWA, expressed deep gratitude for the support, describing Dr. Onyema’s contribution as timely and emblematic of true corporate leadership. “Dr. Onyema has again shown that true patriotism lies in action.
His support is a shining example of what corporate responsibility should look like in Nigeria,” she remarked.
Beyond financial contributions, Air Peace has long demonstrated its commitment to supporting the armed forces and vulnerable groups.
Over the past year, the airline has operated a priority boarding policy that honors military personnel, persons with special needs, and Business Class passengers—reflecting the company’s ethos of respect, inclusion, and service.
Dr. Onyema also made a resonant call to action: “Let this project remind us that we all have a role to play in building Nigeria. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can turn this dream into a lasting reality.”
