The Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines (UNA), Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, has received the prestigious Gold Medal Award of the (INAE) in recognition of the airline’s unwavering commitment to aviation safety, engineering excellence, indigenous capacity development and remarkable growth despite the severe challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and Nigeria’s difficult operating environment.
The honour, presented during the institute’s International Conference and Fellowship Conferment ceremony in Lagos on Wednesday, underscores the increasing recognition of United Nigeria Airlines as one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing carriers with a strong reputation for operational safety and investment in human capital.
Presenting the award, INAE National President, Dr. Ebitei Charles, described the airline’s achievements as a model for the country’s aviation industry, noting that Prof. Okonkwo’s leadership has demonstrated that safety, professionalism and strategic investment remain the pillars of sustainable airline operations.
The institute, a division of the (NSE) regulated by the (COREN) said the award is reserved for distinguished individuals whose contributions have significantly advanced aeronautical engineering and aviation development in Nigeria.
According to the institute, Prof. Okonkwo successfully guided United Nigeria Airlines through one of the most turbulent periods in global aviation history, maintaining growth and operational stability despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenging economic climate.
Although the airline chairman was unavoidably absent, the award was received on his behalf by the airline’s Director of Continuing Airworthiness, Alex Iheuwa, alongside the Chief Pilot, Capt. Joan Obasi-Ibraheem.
Recognition for Safety and Indigenous Capacity Development
Dr. Charles said the honour reflects the institute’s appreciation of United Nigeria Airlines’ strong safety culture, commitment to modern aviation standards and deliberate efforts to develop local engineering expertise.
He particularly praised the airline’s internship programme for aeronautical engineering students, describing it as a strategic investment that is helping to nurture the next generation of Nigerian aviation professionals.
According to him, such initiatives are critical to strengthening indigenous technical capacity, reducing dependence on foreign maintenance services, improving aircraft performance and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
He further commended the airline’s resilience and professionalism, noting that its operational discipline continues to inspire confidence across the aviation sector despite persistent industry challenges.
Okonkwo: Award Validates Our Vision
Reacting to the honour, Prof. Okonkwo described the recognition as a powerful endorsement of the airline’s founding philosophy.
He said the award validates United Nigeria Airlines’ consistent commitment to building an airline founded on uncompromising safety standards, operational excellence and continuous investment in people.
According to him, the recognition belongs to every member of the airline’s workforce whose dedication has sustained the company’s steady growth over the years.
From COVID Turbulence to Continental Expansion
The latest recognition adds another milestone to United Nigeria Airlines’ impressive growth story since commencing commercial operations in February 2021.
Speaking during the unveiling of two Boeing 737-800NG aircraft in Lagos earlier this year, Prof. Okonkwo recalled one of the airline’s most difficult moments during the COVID-19 crisis when 23 pilots undergoing training in South Africa became stranded for nine months after international borders were shut.
Despite the enormous financial burden, he revealed that the airline continued paying the pilots’ salaries and accommodation throughout the period, ensuring none was abandoned during the unprecedented crisis.
That commitment, he said, reflected the airline’s belief that investing in people remains its greatest strength.
Today, United Nigeria Airlines operates a modern fleet serving more than 15 domestic and regional destinations, including Accra, Ghana.
Its growing international profile has also been reinforced through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Guinea-Bissau to support the establishment of a national carrier.
The airline has equally strengthened its global standing by obtaining the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification, joining the IATA Clearing House and becoming a Full Member of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA).
Other Aviation Leaders Honoured
The ceremony also recognised other major players in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Arik Air and Xejet received awards, while the Director-General of the (NCAA) Capt Chris Najomo, and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, were conferred with honorary fellowships in recognition of their contributions to advancing Nigeria’s aviation industry.
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