BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
Dr. Allen Onyema, the Chairman of Air Peace, has been hailed as a Pan-Nigerian nationalist by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
During the Institute’s Diamond Jubilee Awards Night, NIPR President and Chairman of Council, Dr. Ike Neliaku, praised Onyema for his unwavering support of Nigeria through philanthropic efforts and mass employment creation.
At the 60th Anniversary ceremony held on June 27, 2024, at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, Onyema was honored with the Diamond Prize for Excellence in the Promotion of Brand Nigeria. In his presentation speech, Dr. Neliaku lauded Onyema’s dedication to promoting a greater Nigeria, describing him as “the Nigerian of today, tomorrow, and forever.”
The NIPR recognized Onyema’s achievements and steadfast support in building and promoting the Nigerian brand, awarding him a bank cheque for two hundred thousand Naira in an unprecedented gesture. Onyema, joined by other dignitaries, called on Nigerians to resist stigmatization and rise above selfish interests for the collective good of the nation.
He emphasized the importance of embracing Nigeria’s diversity, highlighting the strength found in its 378 ethnic nationalities.
Onyema’s powerful words resonated with the audience, earning him rapturous applause as he received his award.
In his acceptance speech, he expressed deep gratitude to the NIPR, reaffirming his belief in their mission and goals for Nigeria.
Reflecting on the country’s unity, Onyema said, “Seeing Nigerians from all walks of life, different ethnicities, and religions embracing each other gives me hope that this country will remain united forever.”
He also praised former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, calling him a peacemaker and statesman.
Onyema urged the NIPR to create a programme promoting broad nationalism over ethnic and religious divisions. Dignitaries at the event included General Yakubu Gowon and several serving and former ministers.
Notably, Onyema’s philanthropic acts include airlifting 503 stranded Nigerians during xenophobic attacks in South Africa in 2019, evacuating Nigerians during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and rescuing Nigerians stranded in Sudan in 2023.
