United Nigeria Airlines Celebrates Milestones, Calls for Industry Reforms
At its fourth-anniversary celebration in Abuja, United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) highlighted its achievements while addressing pressing challenges in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Professor Obiora Okonkwo, Founder and Chairman of UNA, commended President Bola Tinubu’s forex policies for easing access to foreign currency, a move that has significantly reduced operational hurdles for domestic airlines. He contrasted this with past difficulties that led to contract losses and vendor disputes, emphasizing the positive shift under the current administration.
Okonkwo also acknowledged the benefits of domesticating the Cape Town Convention, which has helped lower operational costs for airlines by improving access to international aircraft leasing markets. However, he pointed out that the industry still faces substantial challenges, particularly the multiple charges imposed by around twenty government agencies. Describing these charges as crippling to profit margins, he urged the government to streamline them to foster growth and sustainability in the sector.
To further support domestic airlines, Okonkwo called for the creation of a program that would provide operators with access to single-digit interest loans. He stressed that such financial support is essential for expansion, improved staff welfare, and enabling Nigerian airlines to compete with international carriers that often enjoy more favorable financing conditions.
Addressing another critical issue, Okonkwo highlighted the challenge of unruly passenger behavior, citing incidents of staff assaults and damage to airport equipment. He appealed to the media to collaborate in educating the public about their rights and responsibilities as travelers, noting that airlines frequently go beyond standard practices to ensure passenger satisfaction.
Despite these challenges, UNA continues to make significant strides. The airline recently added new domestic routes to Benin, Kano, and Sokoto, reflecting its commitment to expanding connectivity within Nigeria. Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Mazi Osita Okonkwo, revealed that UNA has renewed its operating certificate and is in advanced stages of preparing for regional and international flights. He also celebrated a groundbreaking achievement: UNA engineers independently replaced aircraft landing and nose gears without foreign assistance, a first in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Looking ahead, UNA aims to operate flights to 25 destinations by 2026, with plans for further fleet expansion already underway. These developments underscore the airline’s dedication to growth and innovation, positioning it as a key player in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
For African travel agents, UNA’s expansion and operational milestones present new opportunities to offer enhanced travel options to clients. However, the call for industry reforms highlights the need for a more supportive regulatory and financial environment to ensure the long-term success of domestic airlines.
