By Eunice Orike
The Chief Executive Officer of Blake’s Resort, Ukochukwu Thank God Akunodozie, has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting widows and underprivileged children through scholarships and humanitarian outreach, despite Nigeria’s challenging economic climate.
Akunodozie disclosed that the outreach, which he has sustained for over 18 years, has largely been carried out quietly without media attention, driven purely by a personal passion for giving.
The chairman who spoke during a humanitarian outreach programme organised to mark his birthday in Abuja, he emphasised that his motivation is rooted in a deep desire to uplift others.
According to him, the greatest sense of fulfillment comes not from personal spending, but from impacting lives and creating opportunities for those who lack access to basic needs.
“The joy I get is not when I spend on myself, but when I spend on people,” he said. “Seeing the excitement on their faces, especially when they receive support and leave happy, is what drives me”, he said.
As part of the initiative, the entrepreneur extended educational support to children of widows, stressing that education remains the most powerful equaliser in society.
He noted that many children are disadvantaged not by choice, but by circumstances beyond their control, particularly the inability of their families to afford basic education.
“The only platform where a child from any background can compete fairly with others is through education,” he said. “If we want to give underprivileged children a real chance in life, we must invest in their education”, he said.
Akunodozie explained that his interventions are not limited to annual events, but are carried out consistently during festive periods and whenever the need arises.
He added that the initiative is part of a broader commitment to social responsibility and community development.
Speaking on Nigeria’s economic realities, the business leader acknowledged the hardship faced by many citizens and enterprises, but urged Nigerians to focus on contributing positively rather than solely criticising government.
He revealed that his business currently employs over 600 staff across Abuja and beyond, describing job creation as his own way of adding value to the economy.
“As business people, our role is not just to complain but to contribute,” he said. “If more Nigerians commit to adding value in their own way, the pressure on government will reduce significantly”, he added.
While calling for accountability in governance, Akunodozie emphasised the importance of individual responsibility in national development, urging citizens to take proactive steps toward improving their communities.
The outreach programme drew commendation from beneficiaries, many of whom described the gesture as timely amid rising economic hardship.
