BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
In line with its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) framework, the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (NAHCO Aviance) has deepened its community development efforts with the sponsorship of a schools debate competition for primary schools in Oshodi–Isolo Local Government Area of Lagos State, as part of its expanding Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
The initiative, which brought together pupils from public primary schools across the local government, highlighted NAHCO’s resolve to deliver meaningful and sustainable interventions in its host communities.
The company stated that it remains committed to exceeding expectations in the delivery of impactful CSR programmes within its operational areas.
Speaking at the prize-giving ceremony, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NAHCO, Mr. Olumuyiwa Olumekun, who was represented by the Assistant General Manager, Corporate Communications, Mr. Tayo Ajakaye, said the company has consistently intervened in host communities over the years.
According to him, NAHCO’s CSR footprint spans key areas such as the provision of borehole water, donation of relief materials to internally displaced persons, and sponsorship of education infrastructure, among others.
Olumekun congratulated Mafoluku Primary School, which emerged winner of the debate, noting that the performances of the three finalists were outstanding and reflected the intellectual depth and confidence of the young participants.
He also applauded State Primary School, Oshodi, which clinched second place; Oshodi Model Primary School, which finished third; and Larinde Primary School, which came fourth.
The Executive Chairman of Oshodi–Isolo Local Government, Otunba Kehinde Oloyede Almaroof, who attended the grand finale, commended NAHCO for sponsoring the competition.
“This is really very impressive and we must thank NAHCO for this initiative,” Almaroof said.
He urged the company to sustain the sponsorship of the debate, while also calling on the Local Government Education Authority to organise such competitions more frequently across schools in the council area.
The championship, themed “Inspiring Young Voices, Building Tomorrow,” provided a platform for pupils to sharpen their oratory and critical thinking skills.
Beyond competition, it promoted healthy rivalry, boosted public speaking confidence, and exposed the students to enriching experiences outside the classroom.
At the end of the contest, the winning school received a cash prize of ₦500,000, while the second- and third-place schools went home with ₦300,000 and ₦200,000 respectively.
NAHCO said it has consistently demonstrated that its leadership extends beyond aviation ground handling.
For the company, community development is not merely a social obligation but a core commitment to fostering sustainable growth and empowering the people within the environments where it operates.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
