Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, on Thursday unveiled two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft belonging to United Nigeria Airlines, named in honour of late literary giant Chinua Achebe and the Obi of Onitsha, Alfred Achebe.
The unveiling took place at Nesto Aviation Services, near the local airport in Ikeja, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, Otti praised the airline’s Chairman and Founder, Obiora Okonkwo, for recognising accomplished Nigerians through the initiative.
“For remembering to honour our people, you will also be honoured,” the governor said.
Otti also commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for encouraging private-sector investment in the aviation industry.
He noted that government policies now provide stronger support for businesses rather than treating them as competitors.
According to him, efforts to establish an aircraft leasing company would further strengthen local airlines and improve their operational capacity.
“What you have done is to help local airlines operate with stronger government support. I commend and encourage you for that,” he said.
The governor also expressed appreciation for the minister’s backing of the Abia Airport project, revealing that work on the runway had reached an advanced stage.
He reiterated Abia State’s readiness to become a major hub for United Nigeria Airlines, an idea previously suggested by the minister.
In his remarks, Okonkwo said the acquisition of the aircraft reflected growing confidence in Nigeria’s aviation industry and the reforms being implemented in the sector.
He explained that one aircraft was named after Chinua Achebe in recognition of the writer’s enduring contribution to literature and global culture, while the second aircraft was named after Alfred Achebe in honour of his traditional leadership, business achievements and service to national development.
Keyamo, who also spoke at the ceremony, outlined the Federal Government’s aviation reform agenda and stressed the importance of collaboration with industry stakeholders.
He praised Otti’s commitment to aviation infrastructure, recalling that the original proposal for the Abia project was an airstrip before the governor successfully pushed for a full airport.
According to the minister, Otti met with President Bola Tinubu and secured approval after assuring the Federal Government that the state would provide the necessary counterpart funding.
Responding to the honour, Alfred Achebe thanked United Nigeria Airlines, describing the recognition as both meaningful and humbling.
He also reflected on his relationship with the late Chinua Achebe and the significance of sharing the tribute with the celebrated author.
Also speaking, Allen Onyema, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, expressed confidence that United Nigeria Airlines was on track to become one of the leading carriers in West Africa.
