UNA: Heritage, ambition and next phase of growth

United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) marked a significant milestone on June 18, 2026, with the official unveiling of two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft at Nesto Aviation Services, located at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos. The event drew dignitaries and celebrated the airline's chairman, Professor Obiora Okonkwo.

In a move rich with symbolism, the aircraft were named after prominent Nigerian figures: the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, and the late literary giant, Professor Chinua Achebe. The revered monarch, Igwe Achebe, was present, adding a regal presence to the ceremony.

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History is not the past but a map of the past, drawn from a particular point of view, to be useful to the modern traveller.

Professor Okonkwo, speaking at the event, emphasized that naming the aircraft after these two illustrious Nigerians was a deliberate choice to celebrate the nation's "rich culture and heritage." He noted that Chinua Achebe, a relative from his hometown of Ogidi, was instrumental in introducing Africa to the world through literature. The Obi of Onitsha, he added, embodies the wisdom of a traditional throne that has guided generations, serving as an elder statesman and respected leader.

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a people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.

"What makes this occasion different is that, for the first time in Nigeria, we have aircraft bearing these particular names that carry real significance," Okonkwo stated. He underscored that acquiring these aircraft came after "a great deal of sacrifice, hope and effort to give our nation a better direction in aviation."

Igwe Achebe expressed his gratitude, stating, "I am completely overwhelmed and totally lost for words. We are here to celebrate the two aircraft. One is named after me. My name is inscribed alongside Chinua Achebe. I have gained benefits sharing the same surname with Chinua Achebe."

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His Royal Majesty is an elder statesman, a respected leader, hardworking and humble in his ways, deeply traditional, loved and admired by the public. What makes this occasion different is that, for the first time in Nigeria, we have aircraft bearing these particular names that carry real significance, and that came to Nigeria only after a great deal of sacrifice, hope and effort to give our nation a better direction in aviation.

Okonkwo also reflected on the airline's resilience, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He recalled how 23 pilots stranded in South Africa for nine months due to international travel restrictions were supported with continued payments for their hotel bills, food, and salaries, demonstrating the airline's commitment to its staff and its determination to survive.

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I am completely overwhelmed and totally lost for words. We are here to celebrate the two aircraft. One is named after me. My name is inscribed alongside Chinua Achebe. I have gained benefits sharing the same surname with Chinua Achebe.