By Dickson Omobola
United Nigeria Airlines has been admitted as a Full Member of the African Airlines Association, AFRAA, a move that strengthens the continental body’s presence in one of Africa’s largest and fastest-growing aviation markets.
Members of AFRAA have multiple benefits including collective advocacy, network and partnership facilitation, market intelligence, operational efficiency and joint negotiations.
The admission comes as African carriers continue pushing for deeper regional integration under the Single African Air Transport Market, SAATM, a long-running initiative aimed at liberalising air travel across the continent.
Speaking on the development, AFRAA Secretary General, Mr Abderahmane Berthé, said: “We are truly excited to welcome United Nigeria Airlines into the AFRAA fraternity. Nigeria is Africa’s most populous nation and one of its most dynamic aviation markets, and United Nigeria Airlines exemplifies the resilient, forward-looking spirit of the African airline industry. At AFRAA, United Nigeria Airlines will now have access to our full suite of advocacy, joint projects, commercial intelligence, capacity building, and networking resources. We will work to elevate their growth and advance the cause of truly unified African skies.”
Meanwhile, the Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airline, Professor Obiora Okonkwo said: “Joining AFRAA as a full member is a defining moment for United Nigeria Airlines and for Nigerian aviation as a whole. 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, collaborate with our fellow African carriers, and contribute meaningfully to the realisation of the Single African Air Transport Market. We look forward to working with AFRAA and its members to build a more integrated and competitive African aviation industry.”
As a Full Member, United Nigeria Airlines joins a network of over 40 member airlines across the continent. The airline joins a membership that collectively represents more than 85 per cent of total international traffic carried by African airlines.
