United Nigeria Airlines has entered into an aircraft acquisition agreement with Southwest Airlines, a United States-based carrier, for the purchase of six Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The deal marks a significant milestone in the airline’s fleet expansion strategy as it prepares for wider operations across domestic, regional, and international routes.
The agreement was sealed at a formal signing ceremony held at Southwest Airlines’ corporate headquarters in Dallas, Texas, according to a statement released on Sunday.
The Boeing 737-800 aircraft, widely known for its fuel efficiency, performance, and passenger comfort, will strengthen United Nigeria Airlines’ capacity, lower operational costs, and support the government’s drive to grow the aviation sector in line with Nigeria’s broader economic development policies.
The aircraft type has a range of about 2,935 nautical miles and can carry up to 189 passengers in a single-class layout, making it suitable for both short- and medium-haul routes.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, said the move was a natural step forward for the airline after four years of operations.
“This is a step further. After four years of consistent and reliable operations, upgrading to the Boeing 737-800 allows us to scale our services profitably while offering enhanced travel options to Nigerians and other African passengers,” Okonkwo stated.
He explained that the agreement also includes a long-term partnership with Southwest Airlines, covering technical support, maintenance cooperation, and crew training assistance. This, he noted, would reinforce safety and operational excellence across the airline’s growing fleet.
Okonkwo further revealed that the six aircraft represent the first phase of a much larger expansion plan. “We have expressed interest in acquiring an additional four Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, which would bring our total to ten. These will be delivered between the first quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 2027,” he said.
According to him, the new fleet will allow United Nigeria Airlines to launch more direct flights into approved destinations, cut down on long layovers, improve passenger experience, and expand cargo operations while keeping fares competitive.
He added that the deal has broader economic benefits beyond aviation. “The acquisition will create many direct and indirect jobs in Nigeria and contribute to the government’s economic development agenda under the administration of President Bola Tinubu,” Okonkwo stressed.
Also speaking, the Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Boeing Africa, Anbessie Yitbarek, described the partnership as a major endorsement of the Boeing 737 family.
“We are pleased to welcome United Nigeria Airlines to the 737 family with its first 737-800. This aircraft offers the superior reliability, fuel efficiency, and returns that operators need in today’s competitive aviation environment,” Yitbarek said.
Both United Nigeria Airlines and Southwest Airlines confirmed that discussions are ongoing to broaden their collaboration, with the U.S. carrier expected to continue offering support services even after the aircraft are delivered.
Aviation experts believe that United Nigeria Airlines’ move is a bold step that could reshape competition in Nigeria’s airline industry. With a larger and more efficient fleet, the airline may position itself to compete more strongly with established carriers, while also improving Nigeria’s connectivity within Africa and beyond.
The acquisition also highlights the increasing role of private airlines in boosting Nigeria’s aviation industry, which has faced challenges such as high operating costs, foreign exchange pressures, and infrastructure gaps. Industry watchers say that investments like this, if sustained, could help the country become a stronger hub for regional air travel.
