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 naming of the aircraft.

“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 involvement in the aviation industry. He noted that the government had previously viewed itself as competing with private businesses rather than creating an environment for partnership and growth.

Otti further applauded the move to establish an aircraft leasing company, describing it as an initiative that would improve the capacity of local airlines and support the expansion of 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,” 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 willingness to serve as a major operational hub for United Nigeria Airlines, in line with 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 sector, driven by ongoing reforms and improvements within the industry.

He explained that one of the aircraft was named after Professor Chinua Achebe in recognition of his global literary contributions, while the second honoured Igwe Alfred Achebe for 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 collaboration and continuous engagement with stakeholders in the sector.

Keyamo commended Governor Otti’s commitment to aviation infrastructure development and his efforts toward the completion of the Abia Airport project.

He explained that the initial plan was for an airstrip, but Governor Otti engaged President Bola Tinubu and advocated for the development of a full 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 connection with the late Professor Chinua Achebe and the importance of the tribute.

Meanwhile, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, expressed optimism that United Nigeria Airlines was on track to become one of the leading airlines in West Africa.