Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, on Thursday unveiled two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft belonging to United Nigeria Airlines, named in honour of renowned literary icon Professor Chinua Achebe and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe.
The unveiling ceremony was held 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 recognising 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 fostering private-sector participation in Nigeria’s aviation industry, noting that government policies now encourage collaboration rather than competition with private operators.
He further lauded the planned establishment of an aircraft leasing company, describing it as a major step towards strengthening the operational capacity of indigenous 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.
The governor also expressed appreciation for Keyamo’s support for the Abia Airport project, revealing that construction work on the runway had reached an advanced stage.
He reiterated Abia State’s readiness to serve as a hub for United Nigeria Airlines, a proposal earlier suggested by the aviation minister.
In his remarks, Okonkwo said the acquisition of the aircraft reflected growing confidence in the future of Nigeria’s aviation sector, driven by ongoing reforms and improved government support.
According to him, one of the aircraft was named after the late Chinua Achebe in recognition of his enduring literary legacy and global influence, while the second was dedicated to Igwe Alfred Achebe for his exemplary traditional leadership, corporate accomplishments and contributions to national development.
Earlier, Keyamo outlined the Federal Government’s aviation reform agenda, stressing the importance of engagement and collaboration with industry stakeholders.
He also commended Otti’s commitment to aviation infrastructure, particularly the progress recorded on the Abia Airport project.
The minister disclosed that the initial proposal was for an airstrip, but Otti personally engaged President Bola Tinubu and successfully advocated for a full-fledged airport, assuring the Federal Government that the state would provide the counterpart funding required for the upgrade.
Responding to the honour, Igwe Alfred Achebe thanked United Nigeria Airlines for the recognition, describing it as both humbling and meaningful. He also reflected on his relationship with the late Chinua Achebe and the significance of the tribute.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Air Peace Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, expressed confidence that United Nigeria Airlines was on track to becoming one of the largest carriers in West Africa.
