April 09, (THEWILL) – The chairman of Air Peace, Dr Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, has donated N50 million to support the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) College Project.
The generous pledge was made during the grand fundraising and groundbreaking ceremony, which was held at the Armed Forces Officers Mess, Maitama, Abuja.
Dr Onyema, who served as a co-launcher of the project, delivered an inspiring address that emphasised the importance of unity, empowerment, and nation-building.
He hailed the DEPOWA College as a transformative initiative that goes beyond physical infrastructure, describing it as “a beacon of hope” and a strategic investment in the future of Nigeria’s children—particularly those from families of military and police personnel.
Onyema said, “This is not just about bricks and mortar. It is about shaping the minds of young Nigerians who will become leaders, innovators, and agents of positive change. As we lay the first stone of the DEPOWA College, we must understand that we are building a brighter tomorrow—one that empowers our youth to create solutions, inspire others, and contribute meaningfully to our nation and the world.”
He commended DEPOWA’s longstanding impact in supporting service members’ families through education, skills development, and humanitarian programmes, adding that the college will be equipped with modern classrooms, vocational centres, science labs, and creative workshops to prepare students for 21st-century challenges.
In a heartfelt announcement, Dr Onyema pledged N50 million on behalf of Air Peace and called on fellow Nigerians to join the effort.
He further explained that “no matter how little, every contribution counts. This project is a legacy we are all building together. We at Air Peace are fully aware of the immense sacrifices made daily by the men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces. This is our way of giving back to the families of these national heroes.
“Let this project remind us that we all have a role to play in building Nigeria. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can turn this dream into a lasting reality”, Onyema added.
The President of DEPOWA, Mrs Oghogho Gwabin Musa, expressed deep appreciation for Dr Onyema’s donation, describing it as timely and deeply symbolic.
“Dr Onyema has again shown that true patriotism lies in action. His support is a shining example of what corporate responsibility should look like in Nigeria”, Mrs Gwabin Musa stated.
Beyond philanthropy, Air Peace has also consistently supported the armed forces and vulnerable groups. For the past one year, the airline has been operating a streamlined boarding process that prioritises military personnel, individuals with special needs, and Business Class passengers—an initiative that reinforces the company’s respect and support for the armed forces.
With strong backing from visionary leaders like Dr Onyema and the collective will of the people, the DEPOWA College stands poised to become a powerful symbol of unity, education, and national pride.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
