Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, on Thursday unveiled two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft belonging to United Nigeria Airlines.
The aircraft were named in honour of two prominent figures — the late literary giant, Chinua Achebe, and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe.
The ceremony held at Nesto Aviation Services, Gate 4 Access Road, Local Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, drew key stakeholders from Nigeria’s aviation sector and government.
Speaking at the event, Governor Otti applauded the founder and chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, for recognising distinguished Nigerians through the aircraft naming initiative. He noted that such gestures of honour would in turn attract honour to the airline itself.
“For remembering to honour our people, you will be honoured,” the governor said.
Otti also commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for encouraging stronger private-sector participation in aviation. He observed that the government’s approach has shifted from competition with private operators to collaboration and support.
He further praised ongoing plans to establish an aircraft leasing company, describing it as a major step toward strengthening domestic airline operations and improving access to aircraft for local carriers.
According to him, “What you have done is to help local airlines operate under the strong support of the government. I want to commend and encourage you for that.”
On the Abia Airport project, the governor expressed satisfaction with the level of progress on the runway, reaffirming the state’s commitment to completing the facility.
He also restated Abia’s readiness to serve as a hub for United Nigeria Airlines, in line with earlier proposals from the aviation ministry.
Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Obiora Okonkwo, explained that the acquisition of the aircraft reflects increasing confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector, driven by ongoing reforms and policy improvements.
He added that naming one aircraft after Chinua Achebe was a tribute to his global literary legacy, while the second honoured Igwe Alfred Achebe for his leadership and contributions to national development.
At the event, Minister Festus Keyamo highlighted the Federal Government’s reform agenda for the aviation industry, stressing the importance of collaboration with operators and stakeholders.
He also commended Governor Otti’s commitment to aviation infrastructure, particularly the Abia Airport project. Keyamo noted that although the initial plan was for a basic airstrip, discussions with President Bola Tinubu led to approval for a full airport, with Abia State providing counterpart funding.
Also speaking, Chairman of Air Peace, Air Peace, Allen Onyema, expressed optimism that United Nigeria Airlines is on track to becoming one of the leading carriers in West Africa, citing its recent expansion and industry reforms as strong indicators of growth.