By Kemi Yesufu
The crème de la crème of the Nigerian society on Saturday 24th February, joined the management and staff of United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) as they marked the third year anniversary of the Airline.
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, led a long list of dignitaries to the event held at the Paradiso Garden, The DOME Abuja. Also in attendance at the classy dinner to celebrate UNA at three was the former governor of Adamawa State, Mr. Boni Haruna, former chairperson of NNPC Limited Senator Margery Chuba-Okadigbo, Senator Tony Nwoye, former Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, former National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Olisa Metuh, CEO of AirPeace, Allen Onyema, Managing Director of News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Ali M. Ali, Nollywood star, Francis Duru and former African footballer of the Year, Kanu Nwankwo.
Chairman of UNA, Professor Obiora Okonkwo in his usual style was on his feet for most part of the event and when it was time to formally welcome guests, he took out time to thanks partners, associates and customers of the brand for their support in the last three years.
He also spoke of the origin of UNA, reminding guests of how he first attempted a partnership with the Nigerian Air Force, to now that he invested in civil aviation. “Thank God United Nigeria Airline has arrived and is flying to unite the people as pledged’, he said.
Okonkwo told guests that UNA management decided to celebrate on its third year of doing business, as the Nigerian aviation sector is such a tough terrain where airlines which stay in business ought to celebrate. He appealed to passengers to be patient with domestic airlines because they face many challenges as they strive to provide quality service to customers. He particularly said airlines don’t enjoy delaying or postponing flights but their performance is regularly hampered by the country’s tough business environment.
In his goodwill message, CEO of AirPeace, Allen Onyema ascribed the continued success of UNA to the hard work and dynamism of its chairman. Onyema who described Okonkwo as man of integrity. said the UNA founder has become a key player in Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON). Onyema disclosed that Okonkwo joined him early in the fight to ensure that the unprofitable idea of a national carrier was defeated.
Onyema said of his friendship with Okonkwo, “The love between is a sincere one”, on the future of UNA, he added, “One thing I want to assure you is that United Nigeria Airline has come to stay”.
The traditional ruler Ogidi in Idemili North LGA, Anambra State, Igwe Alexander Uzodinma Onyido, also delivered a goodwill message at the UNA gala night. He commended the airline for maintaining a high standard over time, saying he enjoyed each flight taken on UNA. For the founder of the airline, who is his subject, the royal father showered encomium on him saying, he has always displayed the spirit of excellence.
“High Chief Obiora Okonkwo is a man of many colours. He is into many businesses and there is none he hasn’t been successful with”, he said.
The Deputy Speaker commended the UNA management in his speech at the dinner. He assured that the National Assembly will continue to support the growth of the aviation industry through legislation. This is even as he stressed the importance of policy makers and regulatory agencies handling their duties professionally to ensure the success of airline companies. According to the lawmaker, businesses which provide employment and patronize allied service providers should be given all the support by government.
Kalu took time to commend Onyema and Okonkwo for their uncommon partnership, saying both men are role models not only to people of the South East zone where they come from, but also to young people who want to succeed in life. He equally applauded the aviation chiefs for joining in the efforts to promote peace in the South-East.
The event wasn’t all talk as guests were treated to the best of food and drinks as they also enjoyed music from the Shyne Band and DJ Hypeman.
Awards were presented to top-ten fliers, top selling agents, outstanding service providers and the best staff from the 11 stations.
See more pictures from event:
This is the Airline with best services sọ far in Africa