By Bonaventure Phillips Melah

Chairman/CEO of Air Peace, Barrister Allen Onyena, on Thursday at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, displayed an exceptional spirit of solidarity and brotherhood during the unveiling of two brand new Boeing 737-800NG planes acquired by a supposed business rival, United Nigeria airline.

The event was marked by a ceremonial flight with dozens of ‘passengers on board, made up of top government officials, royalties and business leaders who were entertained when Allen Onyena became a symbolic attendant, announcing the plane’s takeoff to ‘Abia state,’ saying they would be cruising at altitude of 35,000 feet above sea level.

His announcement was occasionally interrupted through interjections by his fried and chairman of United Nigeria airline, Chief Okonkwo as the two CEOs exchanged banters, to the excitement of the dignitaries.

Among top attendees were the Governor of Abia state, Alex Otti, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Department-, Festus Keyamo, SAN, Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty, Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe and others.

Speaking at the event, Allen Onyema commended the resilience of Nigerian airline operators for their ability to navigate current economic realities, especially as they affects the aviation industry.

He congratulated United Nigeria Airlines’ Chairman, Obiora Okonkwo, and praised the operating environment under the current administration, despite challenges with the ease of doing business in Nigeria.

One of the new aircraft was name in honour of Nigerian literary icon Prof. Chinua Achebe while the second was named after the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe.

Although Air Peace sits comfortably as Nigeria’s flagship carrier and the largest airline in West Africa, Allen Onyema has continued to show support to other operators in the industry, encouraging them to continue to stand and be committed to providing best quality service to the flying public.

Onyema’s relationship with Okonkwo, has continued to attract positive commentaries among Nigerians who end the two leading aviation industry CEOs who have been shining examples of how healthy competition could help to deepen improved service to consumers

The Special Guest at the unveiling ceremony, Abia State Governor Alex Otti who also served as the Chief Guest, said through his verified social media handle- “Today in Lagos, I had the honour of unveiling two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft by United Nigeria Airlines, named in recognition of two exceptional sons of Nigeria: the late Professor Chinua Achebe, the globally celebrated literary icon, and His Royal Majesty, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, CFR, the Obi of Onitsha.

“I commend the Chairman and Founder of United Nigeria Airlines, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, for this thoughtful gesture of immortalising individuals whose contributions have profoundly shaped our society. Honouring excellence and service inspires future generations and strengthens our collective national identity.

“The acquisition of these aircraft is a testament to the growing confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector and the resilience of indigenous enterprises. I also applaud the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, for his reform-driven leadership and commitment to creating an enabling environment for private-sector participation in the industry.

“I particularly welcome ongoing efforts t:”o strengthen local airlines through innovative initiatives such as aircraft leasing arrangements, which will enhance competitiveness, improve access to aviation assets, and support sustainable growth across the sector.

“I also appreciate the Minister’s continued support for the Abia Airport project. I am pleased to report that work on the runway has reached an advanced stage, and our administration remains fully committed to delivering a world-class aviation facility that will expand economic opportunities, improve connectivity, and position Abia as a strategic hub for commerce and investment,” Otti said and congratulated United Nigeria Airlines on this milestone.

At least 35 people have been killed after gunmen struck Niger’s largest airport on Thursday, officials say. It is the second attack in less than five months.

Residents in the predominately Muslim country told reporters they had just finished their morning prayers when explosions and gunshot sounds rang out from Diori Hamani international airport, located in the capital, Niamey.

Niger’s defence ministry said the fatalities comprised 22 assailants, 11 soldiers, and two civilians.

On Thursday evening, Al-Qaeda affiliate Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) claimed responsibility for the attack.

Niger has been fighting an Islamist insurgency for a decade and in January, an organisation linked to the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for an attack on the same airport.

Thursday’s violence settled by mid-morning and security forces have since launched a manhunt for any remaining attackers.

Edo State Government has announced the arrest of a social media user for raising false alarm of abduction of school children.

Government dismissed the reports which alleged that school students were kidnapped in Sabongida-Ora. It said no such incident occurred and described the report as false and intended to create panic among residents.

The government said the individual responsible for originating and circulating the report has been arrested and would be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others engaged in spreading misinformation.

In a statement on Thursday, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, said Governor Monday Okpebholo has invested heavily in strengthening the State’s security architecture and remained committed to safeguarding lives and property.

Afegbua explained that contrary to the false reports, security agencies have recorded successes in tackling crime, including the rescue of a woman, who was abducted around the Vegetable Market axis off Airport Road on June 14.

According to him, the rescue operation was carried out by the police on the directive of the governor, while the suspected kidnappers were arrested and currently in police custody awaiting prosecution.

“The Governor is not resting on his oars in his determination to make Edo State safe for all,” the commissioner said.

He added that investigations had revealed that many kidnapping incidents were often aided by insiders, including relatives, family members and close associates who provide information to criminal elements.

Afegbua quoted the governor as cautioning residents to be mindful of the company they keep and to remain vigilant.

He also called on citizens to support security agencies with useful intelligence to help curb kidnapping and other criminal activities across the state.

The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s resolve to rid Edo State of criminal elements and ensure the safety of residents and visitors.