United Nigeria Airlines Launches Abuja–Accra Flights, Strengthens Nigeria–Ghana Connection

In a landmark move for regional aviation, United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) has launched its first-ever regional flight, connecting Abuja and Accra, Ghana. This milestone marks the airline’s official expansion beyond Nigeria’s borders under the theme “Uniting West Africa, Empowering Africa’s Future.”

The inaugural Abuja–Accra flight, which took off from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, attracted top dignitaries from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the Ghanaian High Commission, members of the National Assembly Committee on Aviation, corporate partners, and the media.

The event featured colourful cultural displays, goodwill messages, and a symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing unity and progress within the West African aviation space.

Upon landing at Kotoka International Airport, Accra, the aircraft received a ceremonial water cannon salute, followed by a warm welcome from Ghanaian aviation authorities, Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Ghana, and United Nigeria Airlines executives. Both parties exchanged commemorative gifts, reflecting their shared commitment to deeper bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Ghana.

Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, OFR, Chairman and CEO of United Nigeria Airlines, described the milestone as a defining moment in the airline’s mission to strengthen West African unity.

“This inaugural regional flight is not just a business expansion; it’s a bridge between nations. United Nigeria Airlines is proud to play a role in deepening economic, social, and cultural ties within West Africa. Our commitment is to deliver safe, reliable, and world-class service as we continue to grow across the continent,” Prof. Okonkwo stated.

Representing the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, a senior ministry official commended the airline’s regional expansion strategy, emphasizing that such initiatives enhance Nigeria’s leadership in African aviation and support the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Ghanaian aviation officials also hailed the move, noting that improved air connectivity would boost tourism, trade, and people-to-people relations between both nations.

A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of the inaugural aircraft, named in honour of former Ghanaian President Jerry John Rawlings. The aircraft’s naming ceremony, conducted by members of the Rawlings family, symbolized the enduring friendship between the two countries.

Following the inaugural flight, the United Nigeria Airlines leadership team, led by Prof. Okonkwo, paid a courtesy visit to the President of Ghana, further reinforcing the airline’s commitment to fostering regional unity and cooperation through enhanced air connectivity.

With this achievement, United Nigeria Airlines has solidified its position as a key player in advancing intra-African connectivity, while contributing to the broader goal of economic integration and sustainable aviation growth across West Africa.

United Nigeria Airlines makes history with the launch of its first regional flight from Abuja to Accra, deepening Nigeria–Ghana relations and promoting regional integration under the theme “Uniting West Africa, Empowering Africa’s Future.”