…Carrier Hosts Strategic Forum with Top Travel Agents as It Expands Regional Network
As part of its strategic push into regional operations, United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) has hosted a Strategic Agency Forum in Lagos to reinforce collaboration with leading travel agents and stakeholders in preparation for the launch of its Abuja–Accra and Lagos–Accra flights scheduled to commence on 10 November 2025.
The event, which took place at Protea Hotel, Lagos, gathered key industry players, including members of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) and representatives from Sabre, Wakanow, American Express Travels, Orih Travels, and several other influential travel and ticketing companies.
The forum served as a platform for engagement, networking, and strategic discussion on how to enhance sales, improve customer experience, and deepen partnerships as United Nigeria Airlines extends its footprint beyond Nigeria’s borders.
Addressing the gathering, Mrs Ifeoma Ekwerike, Head of Business Development and Strategy at United Nigeria Airlines, described the forthcoming Accra service as a pivotal step in the airline’s regional growth plan. She noted that the Nigeria–Ghana route, one of the busiest in West Africa, handles over 240,000 passengers annually, reflecting strong commercial and tourism potential.
“United Nigeria Airlines is committed to delivering excellence and reliability on the Accra route,” she said. “We are introducing daily direct non-stop flights from Abuja to Accra and four weekly flights from Lagos to Accra, operated with modern aircraft, on-time schedules, and competitive fares. Our agents remain crucial partners in this journey, and we are providing them with robust support, incentives, and rewards for their loyalty.”
Ekwerike explained that the Accra service forms part of a wider expansion strategy that aims to position United Nigeria Airlines as a key player in regional aviation, connecting West African cities and fostering economic, social, and cultural exchange.
Since beginning operations, United Nigeria Airlines has steadily expanded its domestic network, now covering 14 destinations across Nigeria. The airline has also strengthened its operational capacity through the acquisition of two Airbus A320-200s and a CRJ-900, enabling it to deliver higher service efficiency and passenger comfort.
In his remarks, Chief Operating Officer, Mazi Osita Okonkwo, reiterated the airline’s commitment to continuous growth and partnership-driven success. He revealed that United Nigeria Airlines is currently finalising the acquisition of six Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which will significantly enhance its capacity to serve more routes across the continent.
“Our travel agents are our ambassadors and key partners in progress,” Okonkwo said. “They stand at the forefront of customer engagement, and their collaboration remains invaluable to our mission. The travel and tourism sector in Nigeria and across West Africa holds enormous potential, and together, we can unlock new opportunities.”
Okonkwo added that United Nigeria Airlines’ expansion aligns with the company’s long-term goal of developing a robust regional network that connects key African markets while maintaining high standards of safety, reliability, and service delivery.
The interactive forum concluded with a lively lucky dip draw conducted by Chief Commercial Officer, Mr Raphael Uchegbu, during which several travel agents won return tickets to Accra for the inaugural flight.
Uchegbu thanked the agents for their trust and partnership, reaffirming the airline’s commitment to strengthening the agent–airline relationship through continuous engagement and reward programmes.
“Our partnership with agents has always been central to our success,” Uchegbu said. “We see this forum not just as a meeting, but as the beginning of deeper collaboration and shared growth as we take this bold step into regional operations.”
With the upcoming Accra launch on 10 November 2025, United Nigeria Airlines is set to enhance connectivity between Nigeria and Ghana – two of West Africa’s most vibrant economies. The airline continues to uphold its mission of “Flying to Unite,” symbolising its vision of connecting people, cities, and opportunities across the region.
As the airline expands its fleet, strengthens partnerships, and introduces new regional routes, United Nigeria Airlines is positioning itself as a key catalyst for economic and social integration in West Africa, demonstrating that Nigerian aviation can compete confidently on the continental stage.
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