United Nigeria Airlines has expanded its fleet with two Boeing 737-800NG aircraft, named after Chinua Achebe and Igwe Alfred Achebe, in a ceremony that drew top aviation and political leaders.
The unveiling took place on Thursday at Nesto Aviation Services, Gate 4 Access Road, Local Airport, Ikeja, Lagos.
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, attended the event and praised the airline for honouring Nigerian icons through the aircraft naming.
He said, “For remembering to honour our people, you will be honoured.”
The aircraft celebrate Professor Chinua Achebe, author of Things Fall Apart, and Igwe Alfred Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, known for traditional leadership and corporate governance.
United Nigeria Airlines, founded by Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, has grown rapidly since its launch, positioning itself among Nigeria’s leading domestic carriers.
Otti also praised Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo for shifting policy toward private sector growth in aviation.
He said past governments often acted as competitors to private airlines, limiting sector expansion.
Aviation Policy And Airline Growth Align
Governor Otti welcomed the Federal Government’s plan to create a national aircraft leasing company.
The policy is designed to ease aircraft access for local airlines through government-backed guarantees.
He said, “What you have done is to help local airlines operate under the strong support of the government.”
He added, “I want to commend and encourage you for that.”
Minister Keyamo has promoted collaboration with operators under the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), focusing on regulation and support rather than direct competition.
At the event, airline founder Prof. Obiora Okonkwo said the new aircraft reflect confidence in Nigeria’s aviation future.
He linked the investment to ongoing policy changes and improved financing conditions in the sector.
Meanwhile, Air Peace Chairman Allen Onyema said United Nigeria Airlines is on track to become a major force in West African aviation.
Abia Airport Project Gains Momentum
The event also drew attention to the Abia Airport project, a key infrastructure plan in the South-East.
Governor Otti confirmed that runway construction has reached an advanced stage.
He reiterated plans to position Abia as a future hub for United Nigeria Airlines’ operations.
Earlier, Keyamo explained that the project began as a simple airstrip proposal.
However, Otti engaged President Bola Tinubu and pushed for a full international airport backed by state funding.
This upgrade reflects a growing model where states partner with the Federal Government on aviation infrastructure.
Speaking at the ceremony, Igwe Alfred Achebe expressed appreciation for the honour.
He described the recognition as meaningful and reflected on his connection to the late Chinua Achebe.
The fleet expansion, combined with new infrastructure plans, signals a shift toward stronger regional aviation networks in Nigeria.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment 💬, Share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
