The Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, His Royal Highness Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu (Ogadagidi), has thrown his royal weight behind the forthcoming Face of Eastwing and Southeast Aviation Summit, scheduled for August 22 and 23, 2025.
During a courtesy visit by the organizers – Eastwing Aviation Institute, in partnership with LoFish Travel and Tours – Igwe Asadu warmly received the delegation at his palace in Nsukka and pledged to serve as the Royal Father of the Day at the highly anticipated event.
The summit, championed by Eastwing Youth Foundation and driven by Eastwing Aviation Institute, is designed as an academic competition among youths across the Southeast region. It aims to spark interest and empower young minds toward careers in aviation and related sectors.
Describing the initiative as “the kind of bold and necessary innovation the Southeast has been waiting for,” Igwe Asadu commended its vision to open new career pathways and reposition the region in the aviation and tourism landscape.
“I believe aviation is the next big thing,” the Igwe remarked while addressing the delegation, which included students from the institute. “As someone who travels often, I understand the value of safe, accessible, and efficient air transport. I am happy this movement is beginning here in Enugu. Our youth need to see that their future can take off from their own soil.”
The visit to the monarch’s beautifully maintained palace was marked by a warm and generous reception. Each member of the visiting team was asked to introduce themselves individually, a gesture reflecting the Igwe’s keen interest in the people behind the project.
The delegation was led by Mr. Christian Agadibe, Executive Director of the Eastwing Youth Foundation, and included Mrs. Blessing Kenechukwu Cletus, an administrator at Eastwing Aviation Institute; Ms. Itoro Umoette, the Institute’s social media handler; two students of Aircraft Maintenance Engineering; and two representatives from LoFish Travel and Tours.
The Igwe, visibly impressed, praised the team for taking initiative rather than waiting for government support. “We often complain about leadership,” he said. “But change must start from the people. I’m always proud when I see citizens pushing boundaries on their own.”
He further noted the timeliness of the summit, given the growing public concern about air safety in Nigeria. He encouraged the organizers to use the platform to advocate for improved safety standards, traveler education, and increased regulatory awareness.
“This is a timely event,” he stressed. “Use it to educate the public on how to travel safely and wisely. These conversations matter.”
In addition to voicing support for the aviation initiative, Igwe Asadu briefly shared his own social welfare efforts, including a food bank program in his community aimed at combating hunger and supporting vulnerable families.
The Face of Eastwing competition, which will be held in Enugu, is expected to award aviation scholarships and spotlight aspiring professionals in aviation, hospitality, and travel influencing across the Southeast. Organizers say the initiative will not only serve as a launchpad for talented youths but also celebrate innovation in a region historically underserved in aviation infrastructure.
The summit will also feature impactful conversations around aviation safety, youth participation in the sector, and strategies to make the industry more inclusive and accessible. A highlight of the event will be the awarding of scholarships and other mouth-watering prizes to competition winners and deserving participants. GMTNewsng
