The British American Open University in California has awarded Ọzọ Jerry Patrick Onuokaibe, Chief Executive Officer of First Choice Afro Villa Ltd and Mburubu Construction Company Ltd, an honorary doctorate degree in recognition of his significant philanthropic efforts in society.
The award ceremony took place on Saturday at the National Merit Awards House, under the theme: “Hidden and Latent Keys to Nigeria’s Emergence as One of the G-20 Nations Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (Part 2).”
The event was organized by the British American Open University of California, the British American University of Education Foundation in the United Kingdom, Kings College British American Institute for Governance, and the British American Business School. It attracted notable business leaders, industry captains, and academics from around the world.
During his address, Prof. Edet Ekerendu, Deputy Chairman of the Governing Council and former Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, Trade, and Investment, described Nigeria as a nation with immense educational value.
He highlighted that successive governments have made substantial investments in education, a significant change from past times when there was reluctance to study, leading to disparities in educational advantages among different regions.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor David Bruce Day, represented by Country Director Prof. Paul Godwin Udofia, urged Nigerians to embrace hidden knowledge, which he deemed essential for overcoming challenges.
Prof. Udofia presented a statistical analysis of Nigeria’s vast potential and asserted that addressing the nation’s issues requires more than just capable leaders and resource extraction; it necessitates developing individuals who can innovate and invest for national progress.
He also called for stakeholders in education to promote religious tolerance as a compulsory subject, emphasizing its importance in shaping a better future for the nation.
Reacting to the award, Ọzọ Onuokaibe expressed his gratitude to God and the university management for the recognition. He mentioned that upon being informed of the award, he accepted it with faith, viewing it as an acknowledgment of his philanthropic efforts.
He underscored that his philanthropic initiatives are driven by a deep commitment to uplift the less privileged and enhance the quality of life in his community. He stated, “I am very happy with the honor, as I believe that giving back to society is not just a responsibility but a moral obligation for those in positions of influence.”
He elaborated on his charitable activities, which include building schools, providing scholarships, empowering women, and supporting healthcare initiatives, emphasizing that these are expressions of his dedication to societal development.
Onuokaibe also addressed the vital role of supportive government policies in enabling businesses to thrive and contribute to societal progress. He commended Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for fostering a conducive business environment in Enugu State, noting that such policies are crucial for attracting investments and driving economic growth.
The real estate mogul urged fellow business leaders to recognize the importance of philanthropy and social responsibility in nation-building, calling on them to leverage their resources and influence to make a positive impact, as this reflects true success.
The event also recognized outstanding contributions through awards for the Best Nigerian Patriots and Best Performing Leaders.
Some distinguished awardees and honorary fellows included former President Muhammadu Buhari, former Military President General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, former Military Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, Minister of the FCT Nyesom Wike, Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria Daniel Chukwudubem Okoh, Sultan of Sokoto Sa’ad Abubakar, former First Lady of Nasarawa State Hajiya Melo Tanko-Almakura (PhD honoris causa).
Other are; 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, and Dr. Zaka L. Yakubu, among others.
