Professor Obiora Okonkwo, chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, urged Nigerian universities to prioritize skills over academic certificates during a speech in Ado Ekiti. The call came as part of a broader discussion on improving the quality of education to align with industry needs. Okonkwo emphasized that the current academic system is not adequately preparing students for the workforce. He argued that many graduates lack the practical skills required by employers. The meeting took place at the headquarters of United Nigeria Airlines in Ado Ekiti. Okonkwo highlighted the gap between academic training and real-world job requirements. He suggested that universities should collaborate more closely with industries to design relevant curricula. The discussion attracted several university representatives and industry experts. The event aimed to foster dialogue between educational institutions and the private sector. No immediate action plans were announced following the meeting. The debate reflects growing concerns about the relevance of higher education in Nigeria.