Godfrey Okoye University Enugu continues to raise future-ready leaders as the 13th Convocation Lecture was delivered by Christopher Mbanefo, one of Nigeria’s pioneers in aerospace and aeronautical engineering and the Founder and CEO of OXI-ZEN, on the compelling topic:
“One Sky: The Rise of a United Africa”
Caption: Why the future belongs to a generation that imagines boldly and acts together.
In his thought-provoking lecture, Mbanefo reminded students that the world has shifted its focus from professions to skills, driven by rapidly emerging technologies. He stressed that the future will reward those who anticipate change and position themselves with the right competences.
He highlighted the vast opportunities in Africa, especially with the continent’s abundant natural resources, encouraging students to think boldly, innovate, and prepare to lead a united Africa. According to him, growth depends on the obstacles one is willing to confront and navigate.
In a deeply significant gesture, Mbanefo announced that his family will sponsor the Frank Mbanefo Design Competition at Godfrey Okoye University, in honour of his late father, Frank Nwobuora Mbanefo, Nigeria’s foremost visionary architect and one of the nation’s pioneer architects, widely admired for his commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s architectural profession. The competition comes with a remarkable ₦10 million prize fund, aimed at driving innovation and inspiring design excellence.
The Vice-Chancellor, Reverend Father Professor Christian Anieke, presented Christopher Mbanefo with a certificate of appreciation and praised him for his generosity, time, and dedication. He reaffirmed that the Convocation Lecture is a major highlight of Convocation Week, deliberately set aside to honour and celebrate GOUNI’s graduating students.
Bringing the event to a graceful close, the Pro-Chancellor of the University, HRM Prof. Christian Nwachukwu Okeke, delivered the vote of thanks, appreciating the lecturer, the university community, and all dignitaries present for contributing to an inspiring and memorable convocation lecture.
Godfrey Okoye University proudly continues its tradition of celebrating excellence, innovation, and the bold imagination required to shape Africa’s future.
