Otti Unveils United Nigeria Airlines Aircraft Named After Chinua Achebe, Obi of Onitsha

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

The unveiling ceremony was held at Nesto Aviation Services (NESTAV)bIkeja Lagos, attracted key players in Nigeria’s aviation industry, government officials, traditional rulers and business leaders.

Speaking during the event, Governor Otti commended the Chairman and Founder of United Nigeria Airlines, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, for immortalising two distinguished Nigerians whose contributions have left enduring marks on the nation and beyond.

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

The Governor also praised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo (SAN), for introducing reforms aimed at strengthening private sector participation in the aviation industry.

According to him, the Minister’s plan to establish an aircraft leasing company would provide critical support for indigenous airlines and improve their competitiveness.

“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”, the governor stated.

He further acknowledged the Federal Government’s support for the Abia Airport project, revealing that construction of the runway had reached an advanced stage.

Governor Otti reiterated Abia State’s readiness to serve as a major operational hub for United Nigeria Airlines.

In his remarks, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, said the acquisition of the aircraft reflected growing confidence in the future of Nigeria’s aviation sector, driven by ongoing reforms under the current administration.

He explained that one of the aircraft was named after the late Professor Chinua Achebe in recognition of his immense contribution to global literature, while the second aircraft was dedicated to Igwe Alfred Achebe for his exemplary traditional leadership, corporate accomplishments and contributions to national development.

Earlier, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo (SAN), outlined the Federal Government’s aviation reform agenda, which he said prioritises engagement and collaboration with industry stakeholders.

He commended Governor Otti’s commitment to the Abia Airport project, disclosing that although the initial proposal was for an airstrip, the Governor successfully advocated for a full-fledged airport during discussions with President Bola Tinubu.

According to the Minister, Governor Otti assured the Federal Government of the state’s readiness to provide counterpart funding required to upgrade the proposed airstrip into an international airport.

Keyamo said the Governor’s determination and financial commitment had been instrumental to the project’s progress, adding that the Federal Government would soon commence funding other airport infrastructure components in fulfilment of its commitment to the project.

Responding to the honour bestowed on him, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, described the gesture as both humbling and deeply meaningful.

He expressed gratitude to United Nigeria Airlines and reflected on his long-standing relationship with the late Chinua Achebe, while commending the airline’s contribution to the growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry. The monarch also offered prayers for the continued success and expansion of the airline.

Also speaking, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Dr Allen Onyema, expressed confidence that United Nigeria Airlines was on course to becoming one of the largest carriers in West Africa.

He stressed the importance of unity and collaboration among indigenous airlines and urged Nigerians to support local businesses.

Onyema also lauded Governor Otti’s achievements in Abia State, describing him as “the pride of the South-East, the pride of Nigeria, and the pride of democracy”.

He added that the Governor’s accomplishments in the state had rekindled hope among Nigerians.

The event featured the presentation of recognition plaques by the management of United Nigeria Airlines to the late Chinua Achebe, Igwe Alfred Achebe, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and other distinguished personalities for their contributions to the growth of the airline.

Among dignitaries present 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, traditional rulers, captains of industry and other prominent guests.

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