Alex Otti Unveils United Nigeria Airlines’ New Boeing Aircraft Named After Chinua Achebe, Igwe Alfred Achebe

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 Chinua Achebe and the traditional ruler of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe.

The unveiling ceremony, held at Nesto Aviation Services, attracted key stakeholders in Nigeria’s aviation industry, government officials, and business leaders.

Speaking at the event, Governor Otti commended the Chairman and Founder of United Nigeria Airlines, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, for immortalising distinguished Nigerians through the aircraft naming initiative, describing the gesture as a commendable act of patriotism and national recognition.

“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, for creating an enabling environment for greater private-sector participation in the aviation industry. He noted that government policies have shifted from competing with private operators to supporting their growth.

The governor further applauded ongoing efforts to establish an aircraft leasing company in Nigeria, saying the initiative would strengthen the operational capacity of indigenous airlines, improve fleet expansion, and reduce operational challenges facing the aviation sector.

“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,” Otti added.

Governor Otti also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for supporting the Abia Airport project, revealing that construction of the runway had reached an advanced stage. He reiterated the state’s readiness to serve as a major operational hub for United Nigeria Airlines, in line with earlier suggestions by the Minister of Aviation.

In his remarks, Festus Keyamo highlighted ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s aviation sector aimed at strengthening collaboration between government and private operators.

He disclosed that while the original proposal for Abia was the construction of an airstrip, Governor Otti successfully secured the approval of President Bola Tinubu for the development of a full-fledged airport, with the Abia State Government providing counterpart funding for the upgraded project.

Also speaking, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, expressed gratitude for the honour bestowed upon him and the late Chinua Achebe, describing the recognition as deeply meaningful and a fitting tribute to the literary giant’s enduring legacy.

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, also congratulated United Nigeria Airlines on the acquisition of the aircraft, expressing confidence that the airline would continue its growth trajectory and emerge as one of West Africa’s leading carriers.

The acquisition of the two Boeing 737-800NG aircraft is expected to boost United Nigeria Airlines’ domestic and regional operations while strengthening Nigeria’s growing aviation industry.