BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines (UNA), Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, has received national recognition for his contribution to Nigeria’s aviation industry, emerging as the 2025/2026 Travel Personality of the Year.
He was also named among the country’s Top 100 Travel and Tourism Icons for the period.
The honours were presented at the 22nd Akwaaba African Travel Market in Lagos, following a public voting exercise organised by the Travellers Awards.
Okonkwo’s award was received by UNA’s Chief Commercial Officer, Adedayo Olawuyi, on his behalf.
The recognition comes as the airline continues to expand its presence in Nigeria’s domestic aviation market, with the organisers highlighting its growth since it began operations less than six years ago.
Speaking on the awards, organiser Ikechi Uko said Okonkwo’s leadership had helped position the airline around the needs of passengers, particularly access to air travel, connections between destinations and ease of travelling.
Uko said the recognition was designed to celebrate contributions that improve the experience of travellers and strengthen the development of the aviation industry.
He added that UNA’s efforts to improve access to domestic flights and provide more convenient services had contributed to its recognition.
The Travellers Awards, established in 1996, recognises individuals, companies and organisations contributing to the development of aviation, travel and tourism across Nigeria and Africa.
The awards are organised by Travellers Magazine, established in 1993 and described as West Africa’s pioneer travel magazine.
Olawuyi, who spoke on behalf of the airline, said the award demonstrated the possibilities for a domestic airline operating with sound management and a clear focus on passengers.
He said UNA’s experience showed that Nigerian airlines could build sustainable operations while improving the quality of services available to travellers.
According to him, the recognition would further encourage the airline to remain focused on meeting passengers’ needs and supporting the growth of domestic air travel.
He said the award also reflected the airline’s contribution to making air transportation more accessible to Nigerians.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
