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Abia State Governor Alex Otti has unveiled two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft belonging to United Nigeria Airlines, named in honour of the late literary icon Chinua Achebe and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe.
The unveiling ceremony was held on Thursday at Nesto Aviation Services, Ikeja, Lagos.
Otti commended the Chairman and Founder of United Nigeria Airlines, Obiora Okonkwo, for recognising distinguished Nigerians through the initiative, saying those who honour worthy individuals would also be recognised.
The governor also praised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for encouraging private sector participation in the aviation industry, noting that the government’s role had shifted from competing with businesses to supporting their growth.
He further applauded plans to establish an aircraft leasing company, saying such initiatives would strengthen Nigerian airlines’ capacity and improve the sector’s competitiveness.
“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,” he said.
Otti also acknowledged Keyamo’s support for the Abia Airport project, disclosing that construction of the runway had reached an advanced stage. He reaffirmed the state’s readiness to position Abia as a hub for United Nigeria Airlines.
Okonkwo said the aircraft acquisition reflected growing confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector, attributing the development to ongoing reforms and improvements within the industry.
He explained that one aircraft was named after Achebe to celebrate his global literary contributions, while the other honoured Igwe Alfred Achebe for his traditional leadership, corporate achievements and contributions to national development.
Keyamo, while speaking at the event, highlighted the government’s aviation reforms and its commitment to collaboration with industry stakeholders. He also commended Otti’s efforts towards developing aviation infrastructure in Abia.
The minister said the Abia Airport project was initially conceived as an airstrip but was upgraded after Otti engaged President Bola Tinubu and committed the state to providing the necessary counterpart funding for a full-scale airport.
Igwe Alfred Achebe expressed appreciation to United Nigeria Airlines for the recognition, describing the honour as significant and reflecting the importance of preserving the legacy of notable Nigerians.
Meanwhile, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, expressed confidence that United Nigeria Airlines would grow into one of the largest airlines in West Africa.
