The British American Open University, California, has awarded the Chief Executive Officer of First Choice Afro Villa Ltd and Mburubu Construction Company Ltd, Ọzọ Jerry Patrick Onuokaibe, an honorary doctorate degree for his tremendous philanthropic gestures toward society.
The event, which took place on Saturday at the National Merit Awards House, had the theme: “Hidden and Latent Keys to Nigeria’s Emergence as One of the G-20 Nations Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (Part 2).”
It was organized by the British American Open University of California, USA, the British American University of Education Foundation, United Kingdom, Kings College British American Institute for Governance, and the British American Business School. The event attracted notable businessmen and women, captains of industry, and academics from across the globe.
In his address, the Deputy Chairman of the Governing Council and former Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, Trade, and Investment, Prof. Edet Ekerendu, described Nigeria as a nation with high educational value.
He noted that successive governments have invested significantly in education, unlike in the past when people were reluctant to study, thereby making some regions more educationally advantaged than others.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor David Bruce Day, who was represented by the Country Director, Prof. Paul Godwin Udofia, urged Nigerians to embrace hidden knowledge as it is the yardstick to breaking through yokes.
Prof. Udofia also provided a statistical analysis of Nigeria’s enormous potential, adding that the solution to the country’s problems does not only lie in getting good leaders or extracting mineral resources but also in focusing on developing individuals who will shoulder the burden of inventing and investing for the nation’s progress.
He further urged stakeholders in the education sector to adopt religious tolerance and make it a compulsory subject and course for all, as it is also a way to reshape the nation for a better future.
Reacting to the award, Ọzọ Onuokaibe expressed gratitude to God and the management of the institution for such a wonderful honor. He stated that when he was informed about the award, he accepted it with open faith, recognizing it as an acknowledgment of his philanthropic efforts toward society.
Ọzọ Onuokaibe emphasized that his philanthropic work is rooted in a deep commitment to uplifting the less privileged and improving the overall quality of life in his community.
According to him,
“I am very happy with the honor. This is because I so much believe that giving back to society is not just a responsibility but a moral obligation for those in positions of influence.”
“My numerous charitable activities, which range from building schools and providing scholarships to empowering women and supporting healthcare initiatives, are signs of my dedication to societal development.”
Onuokaibe also highlighted the critical role that supportive government policies play in enabling businesses to thrive and contribute to societal growth.
He lauded Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for creating a conducive environment for businesses to flourish in Enugu State, noting that such policies are essential for attracting investments and driving economic progress.
Ọzọ Onuokaibe called on other business leaders to recognize the importance of philanthropy and social responsibility in nation-building.
He also urged them to use their resources and influence to make a positive impact on society, as this is the true measure of success.
The event also included awards for the Best Nigerian Patriots and Best Performing Leaders.
Some of the awardees and honorary fellows included former President Muhammadu Buhari, former Military President of Nigeria, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, former Military Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Christian Association of Nigeria President, Daniel Chukwudubem Okoh, Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, former First Lady of Nasarawa State, Hajiya Melo Tanko-Almakura (PhD honoris causa), Emir of Zazzau-Zaria, Shehu Ma-Lafia (Research Professor of Public Administration), Isaac Ijiwon Edon (Finance and Business Administration), Yasara Chukwuka, Nkechi Sonia Okechukwu, Prof. Peace E. Edosen, Dr. Zaka L. Yakubu, among others.
