Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, on Thursday, unveiled two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft belonging to United Nigeria Airlines, named after the late literary icon and author of Things Fall Apart, Professor Chinua Achebe, and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe.
The unveiling ceremony took place at Nesto Aviation Services, Gate 4 Access Road, Local Airport, Ikeja, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, Otti commended the Chairman and Founder of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, for honouring distinguished Nigerians through the gesture.
“For remembering to honour our people, you will be honoured,” the governor said.
Otti also praised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), for promoting private-sector participation in the aviation industry, noting that the government previously viewed itself as competing with private businesses.
The governor further commended the initiative to establish an aircraft leasing company, saying it would strengthen the capacity of local airlines.
“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 appreciated the minister’s support for the Abia Airport project, revealing that work on the runway had reached an advanced stage.
He reaffirmed Abia State’s readiness to serve as a hub for United Nigeria Airlines, as earlier suggested by the minister.
In his remarks, Okonkwo said the acquisition of the aircraft reflected growing confidence in the future of Nigeria’s aviation industry, driven by ongoing reforms in the sector.
He explained that one aircraft was named after Chinua Achebe in recognition of his global literary legacy, while the other was named after Igwe Alfred Achebe in honour of his exemplary traditional leadership, corporate accomplishments and contributions to national development.
Earlier, Keyamo outlined the Federal Government’s aviation reform agenda, emphasising dialogue and collaboration with industry stakeholders.
He also commended Otti’s commitment to aviation infrastructure and the realisation of the Abia Airport project.
According to Keyamo, the initial proposal was for an airstrip, but Otti met with President Bola Tinubu and advocated for a full-fledged airport, assuring the Federal Government that Abia State would provide the necessary counterpart funding to upgrade the project.
Speaking at the ceremony, Achebe expressed appreciation to United Nigeria Airlines for the honour, describing the recognition as humbling and meaningful.
He also reflected on his relationship with the late Achebe and the significance of the tribute.
Also speaking, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, expressed confidence that United Nigeria Airlines was on course to becoming one of the largest airlines in West Africa.