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The Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, has been selected to deliver the 14th Convocation Lecture of Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) and will also be honoured with an honorary degree during the institution’s 2026 convocation ceremonies scheduled for October.
The university announced that Okonkwo would present the convocation lecture on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at the Alfa Belgore Multipurpose Hall on the ABUAD campus, while the conferment of the honorary degree will take place during the grand finale of the ceremonies on Wednesday, October 21.
According to a letter signed by the university’s Chancellor, Afe Babalola, the institution’s Senate approved Okonkwo’s selection as the convocation lecturer in recognition of his accomplishments and contributions.
The letter noted that Okonkwo would be one of three distinguished Nigerians to receive honorary degrees during the event. It explained that the awards are reserved for individuals whose lives and careers have made meaningful impacts on humanity.
Commending the airline chief’s credentials, Babalola stated that his achievements and pedigree made him the ideal choice for the prestigious lecture.
“With your antecedents and pedigree, you are certainly the right person to be invited to deliver the 14th Convocation Lecture,” the Chancellor wrote.
He added that beyond the information available on the university’s platforms, the invitation would provide Okonkwo with the opportunity to witness first-hand what ABUAD has accomplished within 16 years in advancing quality and functional education in Nigeria, while also opening avenues for collaboration in the institution’s mission of service to humanity.
The university further highlighted its strides in the education sector, noting that it has spent the last 16 years championing reforms aimed at transforming higher education through the institutionalisation of quality learning and practical education.
Responding to the honour, Prof. Okonkwo expressed profound appreciation to the university and its founder, describing the dual recognition as a privilege.
He said he was deeply humbled by the invitation and reaffirmed his admiration and respect for Afe Babalola, while confirming his participation in the ceremonies.
“It is my absolute delight to accept both proposed designations as Convocation Lecturer and as a recipient of the University’s Honorary Degree,” Okonkwo said.
He added that he regarded the recognition as an opportunity to join the league of eminent statesmen and technocrats who had graced previous convocation ceremonies and contributed to discussions on building a better society.
According to him, he has always valued opportunities to serve humanity and considered the invitation another avenue to contribute to that cause.
The forthcoming convocation ceremonies are expected to bring together academics, public figures, industry leaders and dignitaries from across the country, as ABUAD celebrates another milestone in its mission to promote excellence and innovation in higher education.
