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LAGOS – Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has unveiled two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft belonging to United Nigeria Airlines, named in honour of the late literary giant, Professor Chinua Achebe, and the revered Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, CFR.

The aircraft were officially unveiled during a colourful ceremony held at Nesto Aviation Services (NESTAV), Gate 4 Access Road, Local Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, drawing top government officials, aviation stakeholders, traditional rulers and captains of industry from across the country.

Speaking at the event, Governor Otti commended the Chairman and Founder of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, for immortalising two outstanding Nigerians whose contributions have continued to shape national and global discourse.

According to the Governor, honouring great personalities while they are alive and preserving the legacies of those who have departed remains a noble undertaking that inspires future generations.

“For remembering to honour our people, you will be honoured,” Governor Otti stated.

The Governor also lauded the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, for championing policies that encourage private sector participation in the aviation industry.

He particularly praised the Federal Government’s aircraft leasing initiative, describing it as a strategic intervention that would strengthen indigenous airlines and improve their competitiveness on the global stage.

“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. If all of them go individually, they may not even get the attention of Boeing. So, I want to commend and encourage you for that,” Otti said.

The Governor further appreciated the Minister’s support for the Abia Airport Project, revealing that construction of the runway has reached an advanced stage. He reiterated Abia State Government’s commitment to delivering a world-class airport and expressed readiness for the state to serve as a strategic operational hub for United Nigeria Airlines.

Earlier in his address, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, described the acquisition of the aircraft as a major milestone for the airline and a reflection of renewed confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

He explained that the decision to name one of the aircraft after the late Professor Chinua Achebe was in recognition of the literary icon’s enduring global influence, while the second aircraft was dedicated to Igwe Alfred Achebe in honour of his exemplary traditional leadership, corporate accomplishments and contributions to national development.

Also speaking, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, outlined the Federal Government’s reform agenda for the aviation industry, emphasizing collaboration with industry stakeholders as a key driver of growth.

Keyamo commended Governor Otti’s determination towards the realization of the Abia Airport Project, disclosing that the Governor successfully pushed for the upgrade of the initial airstrip proposal to a full-fledged airport after engaging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to the Minister, Governor Otti’s commitment, including the provision of counterpart funding, has been instrumental to the progress recorded on the project. He assured that the Federal Government would soon commence funding additional airport infrastructure in fulfillment of its obligations.

In his remarks, the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, CFR, expressed profound appreciation to United Nigeria Airlines for the honour bestowed on him.

The revered monarch described the recognition as both humbling and significant, while also reflecting on his relationship with the late Professor Chinua Achebe. He commended the airline for its contributions to the aviation industry and prayed for its continued growth and success.

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema, also spoke at the event, expressing confidence that United Nigeria Airlines was on course to becoming one of the largest carriers in West Africa.

He stressed the need for cooperation among indigenous airlines and urged Nigerians to support local businesses. Onyema further praised Governor Otti’s leadership in Abia State, describing him as “the pride of the South-East, the pride of Nigeria and the pride of democracy,” noting that the Governor’s achievements continue to inspire hope across the country.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of recognition plaques by United Nigeria Airlines to distinguished individuals and industry leaders for their contributions to the growth of the airline. Governor Otti presented plaques in honour of the late Professor Chinua Achebe, Igwe Alfred Achebe, Minister Festus Keyamo and other notable personalities.

Governor Otti also received a plaque of recognition from Igwe Alfred Achebe before proceeding to officially unveil the two Boeing 737-800NG aircraft.

Among dignitaries present at the event were 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, aviation stakeholders, captains of industry and other eminent Nigerians.

The unveiling of the aircraft marks another significant milestone for indigenous aviation in Nigeria and underscores growing confidence in the sector amid ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening local operators and expanding air transport infrastructure across the country.