Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, on Thursday unveiled two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft belonging to United Nigeria Airlines, named after renowned literary figure and author of Things Fall Apart, 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, Governor Otti commended the Chairman and Founder of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, for recognising and celebrating distinguished Nigerians through the initiative.

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

The governor also praised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), for encouraging private-sector participation in the aviation industry, noting that government had previously viewed itself as competing with private businesses rather than supporting them.

Otti further applauded the plan to establish an aircraft leasing company, describing it as a move that would improve the capacity and competitiveness of local 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 appreciated the minister’s support for the Abia Airport project, disclosing that construction work on the runway had reached an advanced stage.

He reaffirmed Abia State’s readiness to serve as a hub for United Nigeria Airlines, following an earlier suggestion by the aviation minister.

In his remarks, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo said the acquisition of the aircraft reflected growing confidence in the future of Nigeria’s aviation industry, supported by ongoing reforms in the sector.

He explained that one of the aircraft was named after Professor Chinua Achebe in recognition of his outstanding contribution to global literature, while the other was named after Igwe Alfred Achebe in acknowledgement of his traditional leadership, corporate achievements, and contributions to national development.

Earlier, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, highlighted the Federal Government’s aviation reform agenda, stressing the importance of dialogue and partnership with industry stakeholders.

Keyamo also commended Governor Otti’s commitment to aviation infrastructure development and efforts toward actualising the Abia Airport project.

He explained that the initial plan was for an airstrip, but Governor Otti engaged with President Bola Tinubu and advocated for the establishment of a full-scale airport, assuring the Federal Government that Abia State would provide the required counterpart funding to upgrade the project.

Speaking at the ceremony, Igwe Alfred Achebe expressed appreciation to United Nigeria Airlines for the honour, describing the recognition as both humbling and significant.

He also reflected on his relationship with the late Professor Chinua Achebe and the importance of the tribute.

Meanwhile, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, expressed confidence that United Nigeria Airlines was positioned to become one of the largest airlines in West Africa.