Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has been named the chief guest of honour at the official unveiling ceremony of two newly acquired Boeing 737-800 Next Generation (NG) aircraft by United Nigeria Airlines.
The unveiling ceremony will take place on June 18, 2026, at the Nigeria Air Force 631 ACMD Apron, Ikeja, Lagos.
The two aircraft were named after His Royal Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, and literary icon, the late Professor Chinua Achebe.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, is expected at the event as special guest of honour, while the Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, will serve as chief host.
The airline recently acquired the Boeing 737-800NG aircraft as part of its fleet expansion programme to strengthen operations and improve service delivery.
In a statement on Monday, United Nigeria Airlines announced that the newly acquired aircraft, with registration numbers 5N-CFC and 5N-CFB, is a milestone in the carrier’s expansion strategy and commitment to enhancing air travel services across Nigeria.
According to the airline, the aircraft were dedicated to the Obi of Onitsha and the late Chinua Achebe in celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and to honour individuals whose contributions have left lasting impacts on society.
The aircraft arrived at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MM2), Lagos, on June 13 and are scheduled for formal unveiling on June 18.
Speaking ahead of the ceremony, the airline’s Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Adedayo Olawuyi, said the acquisition is a landmark achievement for the company.
“This aircraft is not just about expanding capacity; it is about telling our story, celebrating our icons, and uniting our people with a renewed sense of pride,” Olawuyi said.
United Nigeria Airlines said the Boeing 737-800 is globally recognised for its operational efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort.
(The Whistler)
