Anambra-born Businessman, Michael Areh, Bags Honorary Doctorate for Business, Philanthropy

The luxurious halls of Best Western Plus Elomaz Hotel in Asaba came alive with colour and inspiration as distinguished personalities from across Africa gathered for the African Changemakers Accelerator Program 2025, a collaborative initiative between The Professional Public Speaking & Leadership Academy and Highstone Global University, Texas, USA.

The event recognized individuals who have demonstrated exceptional impact in business, community development, and leadership. Among the honorees was Mr. Michael Oranyelu Areh, who received the Doctor of Business Administration (Honoris Causa) for his outstanding contributions to human and economic development.

Hailing from Onitsha, Anambra State, Dr. Areh is the CEO of MOA & Sons Drilling Service Limited, one of Nigeria’s foremost hydro-drilling companies. Under his leadership, the company has transformed access to clean water in both rural and urban communities, driving socio-economic upliftment and environmental sustainability.

Beyond business, Dr. Areh’s philanthropic reach extends through his board role at God Leads Ministries Compassionate Hands for the Vulnerable, a UK-based NGO focused on supporting widows and vulnerable families. To date, he has empowered over 350 individuals, offering not just financial support but dignity and hope.

Declaring the event open, Prof. Valentine Iheukwumere, African Vice Chancellor of Highstone Global University, USA, commended the collaboration as “timely and transformative for a continent in need of practical changemakers.” He urged the new honorees to “wear the mantle of impact with greater responsibility and continue to light up the path of transformation across Africa.”

The convocation ceremony featured an inspiring keynote session by Dr. Lotanna Okoye, Director-General of PPSLA Africa, on the theme “10X Planning Skills for 2026,” focusing on strategic thinking and exponential execution for professionals and leaders.

As the evening drew to a close, applause filled the hall not just for the titles conferred, but for the renewed spirit of service and innovation the event ignited among Africa’s emerging changemakers.