United Nigeria Airlines’ Entry Into Abuja–Accra Route Crashes Prices By 50%, Says Chairman

The chairman of United Nigeria Airlines (UNA), Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, has disclosed that the commencement of the airline’s direct commercial flights on the Abuja–Accra and Lagos–Accra routes has forced a 50 percent reduction in airfares on the Abuja–Accra corridor.
Prof. Okonkwo made this known at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, during the inaugural flight ceremony.
“You may have known that the only airline operating direct flights from here to Ghana immediately slashed its fare by 50 percent the moment United Nigeria Airlines announced its entry today. These benefits ultimately accrue to Nigerians,” he said.
According to him, the development is already contributing positively to the economy by enhancing competition, improving passenger choice, and offering more affordable travel options.
Prof. Okonkwo also reaffirmed the safety record of Nigeria’s aviation industry, noting that Nigerian airlines operate under some of the most rigorous regulatory standards in the world.
“One of the safest aviation industries globally is Nigeria’s, because our regulations are tough. For instance, pilots and cockpit crew undergo proficiency certification every six months, unlike in many parts of the world where it is done every 12 months. Since our training takes place abroad, it comes at huge costs, but it is fully certified internationally,” he explained.
He added that several Nigerian airlines, including Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines, possessed the globally recognised IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) certification — a significant indicator of compliance with world aviation safety standards.
“When you fly a Nigerian airline, rest assured that everything humanly possible has been done to ensure safety,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, the director general of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, represented by the director of Special Duties, Horatius Egua, reaffirmed the regulator’s commitment to supporting indigenous airlines.

He appealed to Nigerians to patronize local carriers, stressing that a stronger domestic aviation sector would help expand economic opportunities and reduce unemployment.

“We passionately urge Nigerians to support indigenous airlines. Strengthening them will boost the country’s economic potential and help alleviate unemployment among young people. United Nigeria Airlines is once again breaking barriers, and as regulators, we will keep supporting the industry,” he said.

Egua emphasised that safety remained the NCAA’s top priority, assuring that every airline flying in and out of Nigeria meets all required certifications.

“We are on top of our job and will ensure full compliance with safety standards across the sector,” he added.