Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has unveiled two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft of United Nigeria Airlines named after the late globally-renowned literary icon and author of Things Fall Apart, Professor Chinua Achebe, and the highly respected traditional monarch and Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, CFR, in a ceremony that celebrated both literary and traditional leadership while showcasing the growing confidence in Nigeria's aviation industry.
The unveiling ceremony took place on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at the Nesto Aviation Services (NESTAV) facility in Ikeja, Lagos, and was attended by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN; the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe; Dr. Allen Onyema, Chairman of Air Peace; royal fathers; captains of industry; and other distinguished dignitaries.
Speaking at the event, Governor Otti thanked the Chairman and Founder of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, for honoring the two distinguished personalities, noting that such a gesture would also attract honor in return. "For remembering to honor our people, you will be honored," Governor Otti said.
The Governor also commended the Minister of Aviation for fostering private-sector participation in the aviation industry, noting that government previously viewed itself as competing with private businesses. Governor Otti particularly praised the idea of establishing an aircraft leasing company as disclosed by the Minister. "What you've done is to hedge the local airlines so they come behind the strong tower of government and you can negotiate once your hands are strong, but if all of them go individually, they may not even get the attention of Boeing. So, I want to commend you and encourage you for that," Otti stated.
The Governor further appreciated the Minister's support for the Abia Airport project, revealing that the runway is now at an advanced stage, reaffirming Abia State's readiness to serve as a hub for United Nigeria Airlines as earlier stated by the Minister.
In his opening speech, the founder and CEO of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, said that the acquisition of the aircraft reflects growing confidence in the future of the Nigerian aviation industry, driven by reforms introduced by the Aviation Minister. He explained that the aircraft were named after Chinua Achebe in recognition of his global literary legacy and after Igwe Alfred Achebe for his exemplary traditional leadership, corporate accomplishments, and contributions to national development.
Earlier, the Minister of Aviation outlined the Federal Government's aviation reform agenda, emphasizing dialogue and collaboration with industry stakeholders. He also commended Governor Otti's commitment to aviation infrastructure aimed at the realization of the Abia Airport Project, revealing that while the initial proposal was for an airstrip, the Governor met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and insisted on a full-fledged airport, assuring him that Abia State would provide the required counterpart funding to upgrade the proposed airstrip to an international airport. According to the Minister, Governor Otti's determination and financial commitment have been crucial to the progress of the Abia Airport project, and he promised that very soon, the Federal Government would start injecting funds for the other airport infrastructure in fulfillment of their commitment to the project.
His Royal Majesty, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, whose name was also bestowed on one of the aircraft, expressed deep appreciation to United Nigeria Airlines for the honor. He described the recognition as humbling and meaningful and reflected on his relationship with the late Chinua Achebe. He commended United Nigeria Airlines' contribution to Nigeria's aviation industry and offered prayers for its continued success and growth.
Also speaking, Dr. Allen Onyema, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, expressed confidence that United Nigeria Airlines is on course to becoming one of the largest airlines in West Africa. He emphasized unity, collaboration, and support among indigenous airlines, commended the ongoing reforms in the aviation sector, and urged Nigerians to patronize local businesses. Onyema also praised Governor Otti's leadership and achievements in Abia State, describing him as "the pride of the South-East, the pride of Nigeria, and the pride of democracy," adding that what he has done in Abia State gives hope to the nation.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of recognition plaques from United Nigeria Airlines Management, which were presented by Governor Otti to honor the late Chinua Achebe, Igwe Alfred Achebe, the Minister of Aviation, as well as other distinguished personalities and captains of industry for their contributions to the growth of United Nigeria Airlines. Governor Otti also received a plaque of recognition presented by Igwe Alfred Achebe. The high-point of the event was the official unveiling of the two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft, performed by Governor Otti.
The Director-General of Civil Aviation and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Ona Najomo, Dr. Uju Ifejika, royal fathers, captains of industry, and other distinguished dignitaries were among those who graced the event.
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