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United Nigeria Gains AFRAA Membership, Expands Routes

United Nigeria Airlines has been admitted as a Full Member of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA), strengthening the body’s presence in Nigeria, one of Africa’s largest aviation markets.

The airline, which began operations in February 2021, said its mission is to enhance domestic connectivity and advance regional integration within West Africa.

United Nigeria operates a diverse fleet including Boeing 737-800NG, Embraer 145, A-320, Embraer 190, and CRJ 900 jets, serving 14 domestic routes such as Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Enugu, with plans to add four more this year.

It also flies to Accra, Ghana, and has been designated by the Nigerian government to operate routes to the USA, Canada, UAE, UK, Italy, Turkey, and other destinations.

The airline recently signed an MoU with Guinea-Bissau to establish a national carrier, achieved IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification, and joined the IATA Clearing House, underscoring its commitment to global safety standards.

Plans are underway to establish its own Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility to reduce reliance on offshore services.

AFRAA Secretary General Abderahmane Berthé welcomed the airline, saying “Nigeria is Africa’s most populous nation and one of its most dynamic aviation markets. United Nigeria Airlines exemplifies the resilient, forward-looking spirit of the African airline industry.”

Executive Chairman Prof. Obiora Okonkwo described the membership as a defining moment.

“Our vision has always been to unite Nigerians and connect them more closely to the rest of the continent. AFRAA membership gives us a stronger platform to advance that vision,” he said.

As a full member, United Nigeria joins over 40 African airlines, collectively representing more than 85% of international traffic carried by African carriers, and gains access to AFRAA’s advocacy, joint projects, and networking resources.