His Royal Highness, Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu (Ogadagidi), Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, has thrown his royal weight behind the upcoming Face of Eastwing/Southeast Aviation Summit, describing it as “bold and necessary innovation” capable of reshaping the future of youth empowerment and aviation development in the region.
During a courtesy visit to his palace in Nsukka by representatives of Eastwing Aviation Institute and its partner, LoFish Travel and Tours, Igwe Asadu formally endorsed the event and pledged to serve as the Royal Father of the Day when it holds on August 22nd and 23rd, 2025.
The initiative, spearheaded by Eastwing Aviation Institute and organized by the Eastwing Youth Foundation, is designed as an academic competition for youths across the Southeast. The goal is to stimulate interest in aviation careers and offer tangible pathways to enter the field through mentorship, exposure, and scholarships.
Speaking to the delegation, which included Institute staff, students, and travel industry partners, Igwe Asadu expressed admiration for the vision behind the project.
“I believe aviation is the next big thing. As someone who travels often, I understand the importance of safe, accessible, and efficient air transport. I am happy this movement is starting here, in Enugu. The youth need to see that the future can take off from their own soil,” he said.
Visibly impressed by the team’s passion and clarity of purpose, the Igwe commended their initiative in pursuing grassroots development without waiting for government intervention.
“We often complain about leadership, but change must start from the people. I am always proud when I see citizens pushing boundaries on their own,” he stated.
The Igwe also emphasized the timeliness of the event, referencing current national concerns surrounding aviation safety. He encouraged the organizers to seize the opportunity to educate the public on vital issues.
“This is a timely event,” he noted. “Use it to inform the public on how to travel safely, and wisely. These conversations matter.”
He further underscored his personal commitment to youth empowerment and social responsibility by highlighting his village food bank, a self-funded initiative that supports vulnerable families in his community.
Leading the Eastwing delegation was Mr. Christian Agadibe, Executive Director of Eastwing Youth Foundation. He was joined by Mrs. Blessing Kenechukwu Cletus, Administrative Lead of Eastwing Aviation Institute; Ms. Itoro Umoette, the Institute’s social media coordinator; two students of Aircraft Maintenance Engineering; and two representatives from LoFish Travel and Tours.
In a gesture of personal engagement, the Igwe invited each guest to introduce themselves individually, signaling his genuine interest in the faces behind the mission.
The Face of Eastwing competition promises to reward ambitious youths with aviation scholarships and other exciting prizes. It will spotlight future aviation professionals, travel influencers, and hospitality talents from across the Southeast. Organizers say the summit will also feature expert-led panels on aviation safety, innovation, and strategies to make the industry more inclusive for brilliant young Nigerians.
To join the competition, visit: https://eai-ng.com/face-of-eastwing/