Otti launches plane honouring literary icon Chinua Achebe and Onitsha royal leader

Abia State Governor Alex Otti unveiled two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft belonging to United Nigeria Airlines on Thursday, with the planes named after the late Professor Chinua Achebe and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe.

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The unveiling ceremony was held at Nesto Aviation Services, located at Gate 4 Access Road, Local Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, marking a significant moment for the airline and the individuals being honored.

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Speaking at the event, Governor Otti commended United Nigeria Airlines' Chairman and Founder, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, for paying tribute to distinguished Nigerians through the naming of the aircraft, stating that such gestures would ultimately bring honor to those who initiate them.

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Otti praised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for fostering private-sector participation in the aviation industry, highlighting a shift from the government's previous stance as a competitor to private businesses.

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The governor also expressed support for the initiative to establish an aircraft leasing company, which he believed would bolster the capacity of local airlines to operate effectively with government backing.

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Otti appreciated the minister's support for the Abia Airport project, revealing that the runway construction had reached an advanced stage, and reaffirmed the state's willingness to serve as a hub for United Nigeria Airlines as suggested by the minister.

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Prof. Obiora Okonkwo noted that the acquisition of the aircraft reflected growing confidence in the future of Nigeria's aviation industry, driven by ongoing reforms in the sector, and highlighted the significance of naming the planes after notable figures.

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Okonkwo explained that one aircraft was named after Chinua Achebe in recognition of his literary legacy, while the other was named after Igwe Alfred Achebe in honor of his traditional leadership and contributions to national development.

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Minister Festus Keyamo outlined the Federal Government's aviation reform agenda, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and collaboration with industry stakeholders, and commended Governor Otti's commitment to aviation infrastructure and the Abia Airport project.

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Keyamo recalled that the initial proposal was for an airstrip, but Governor Otti successfully advocated for a full-fledged airport, securing a commitment from the Federal Government with Abia State providing the necessary counterpart funding.

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Igwe Alfred Achebe expressed gratitude to United Nigeria Airlines for the honor, describing the recognition as humbling and meaningful, and reflected on his relationship with the late Chinua Achebe and the significance of the tribute.

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Allen Onyema, Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, expressed confidence that United Nigeria Airlines was on track to becoming one of the largest airlines in West Africa, citing the airline's progress and potential for growth.