United Nigeria Airlines has signed a major deal with Southwest Airlines to acquire 10 Boeing 737-800 aircraft, boosting its regional and international expansion plans.
United Nigeria Airlines has signed a landmark sales and purchase agreement with Southwest Airlines for the delivery of six Boeing 737-800 aircraft within the year, with an additional four 737-800 NG aircraft to arrive between early 2026 and the first quarter of 2027.
The agreement, brokered with SkyWorks Holdings, marks a major expansion for one of Africa’s fastest-growing carriers.
Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, said the new fleet will boost domestic, regional, and international flights, create thousands of jobs, and support Nigeria’s economy. “The massive aircraft acquisition would generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs and boost the country’s economic development and growth, in line with the policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he stated.
Okonkwo added that the acquisition would eliminate inefficient stopovers, save time for African travelers, and align with the airline’s culture of efficiency.
Boeing’s vice president for Africa sales, Anbessie Yitbarek, welcomed the deal, saying, “The 737-800 will provide United Nigeria Airlines with superior reliability, fuel efficiency and high-value returns.”
The Boeing 737-800 is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s aviation competitiveness and provide passengers with enhanced comfort and connectivity.