BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) marked a key milestone on February 12, 2026, celebrating five years of operations with a press conference that showcased its journey from a modest vision to a rising force in African aviation.
The event, themed “From Vision to Velocity – 5 Years of United Growth: Charting the Next Frontiers,” drew members of the press, partners, and aviation stakeholders to reflect on past achievements and outline plans for the future.
The airline began operations on February 12, 2021, flying its inaugural route from Lagos to Enugu with just four narrow-body aircraft.
Today, UNA operates ten aircraft, connecting sixteen cities across Nigeria and making its first foray into regional travel with flights to Ghana.
Millions of passengers have traveled safely with the airline, building trust with both Nigerian customers and international partners.
Recognition from global bodies has followed, including IATA membership and IOSA certification achieved within just two years, underscoring UNA’s commitment to world-class safety and operational standards.
In his remarks, the Chairman, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, emphasised that UNA’s growth is underpinned by its people, saying Cockpit and cabin crews, engineers, dispatchers, ground officers, and interns have all undergone rigorous training both in Nigeria and abroad.
“It is our people who translate vision into velocity,” he said, praising their dedication, discipline, and professionalism.
He said the Nigeria’s aviation sector presents unique challenges, from regulatory hurdles and infrastructure limitations to currency volatility and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite these obstacles, Obiora said UNA has navigated its growth with determination, ensuring that each challenge strengthens the airline’s focus rather than diminishes it.
For the future, he said UNA has unveiled a roadmap to transform the airline into a recognized continental aviation powerhouse.
The airline plans to expand its network responsibly, leveraging strategic partnerships while growing its cargo and ancillary services.
Enhancing passenger experience remains central, with continued investment in modern aircraft, innovative inflight services, and digital solutions designed to simplify travel.
Beyond aviation, he said UNA is committed to social impact through the UNA Foundation, supporting education, healthcare, aviation training, and community development initiatives across Nigeria.
The airline also introduced several strategic initiatives.
Its inflight magazine, HARMONY, aims to celebrate culture, destinations, and the people who make travel with UNA unique.
Unity Rewards, a new loyalty program, is designed to recognize frequent travelers and provide exclusive benefits, strengthening the bond between the airline and its customers.
Fleet expansion plans are ambitious, with six new Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft already acquired and additional planes leased to support future regional and international operations.
Plans for intercontinental flights to destinations such as Dubai, Rome, New York, and London are in advanced stages.
Looking forward, he said UNA is preparing to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul facility within three years and relocate its corporate office to Ikoyi, Lagos, by the end of 2026.
The Chairman expressed gratitude to passengers, staff, regulatory authorities, financial partners, and industry peers, including Barr. Allen Onyema of Airpeace Airlines. “Five years ago, this dream began as a vision. Today, it is a reality we can all be proud of,” he said.
He concluded by affirming that the next five years will demand courage, innovation, and dedication, and expressed confidence that UNA will continue to soar, positioning Nigeria as a central player in regional and global aviation.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
