BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
In recognition of his contributions to the development of Nigeria’s aviation industry, the Executive Chairman, United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, has received the Trailblazer Award in Aviation at the Daily Times Nigeria Centenary Awards, held to celebrate the newspaper’s 100 years of existence.
The award specifically lauds Okonkwo’s role in establishing and developing United Nigeria Airlines into one of Nigeria’s major domestic carriers.
Speaking after receiving the award, Okonkwo called on the Federal Government to provide greater support for private businesses, stressing that the private sector remains a major driver of employment and economic growth in the country.
He argued that, after the government, the private sector is Nigeria’s largest employer of labour and should therefore receive policies and support that will enable businesses to grow, create jobs and contribute more to the economy.
Okonkwo founded United Nigeria Airlines to expand domestic air travel options and improve connectivity among Nigerian cities. Since its establishment, the airline has provided additional travel choices for passengers while supporting business, tourism and employment across the aviation value chain.
He noted that running an airline requires huge financial commitments, operational discipline, strict compliance with regulations and a strong focus on safety and passenger service.
The airline has also recorded progress in raising funds for its expansion. It recently closed the first tranche of its ₦100 billion commercial paper programme after raising ₦22 billion.
The offer, which had a target of ₦20 billion, was oversubscribed, indicating demand above the amount initially put on offer. Following the strong response, the airline accepted an additional 10 per cent of the excess subscription and refunded the remaining unallocated funds to investors.
United Nigeria Airlines currently operates to 14 destinations across Nigeria and Ghana and is finalising plans to expand its regional operations. It also has approvals to operate as a flag carrier to six international destinations.
In further efforts to strengthen its international reach, the airline secured membership of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in 2022 and is also a full member of the African Airlines Association.
In 2026, it signed the IATA Multilateral Interline Traffic Agreement and secured global distribution system agreements with Amadeus and Sabre. The agreements allow travel agents around the world to access its ticket inventory and improve its visibility in the international travel market.
The airline is also an IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA)-certified operator, a certification that reflects its compliance with internationally recognised airline operational safety standards.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
