IATA vows to safeguard interest of United Nigeria Airlines, as airline receives membership certificate
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has vowed to do everything possible to support the operations of United Nigeria Airlines as it seeks to become a global airline of repute.
IATA’s Regional Director, West and Central Africa, Mr. Samson Fatokun made this vow earlier today at the official presentation of IATA membership certificate to UNA in Lagos, Nigeria.
Fatokun commended the airline for its resilience and determination to become a global carrier, having become one of the few airlines within the African region to secure IATA membership.
“For us this morning, we are here to congratulate United Nigeria Airlines. Thank you for doing so well in a very short time. Also, this is an encouragement for you Mr chairman, that by being a member of IATA, you have IATA behind you.
“As our member, we will do everything possible to support your operation and your progress. We are now part of the same family. The same family where you have other airlines of this world. You have done well. You have met the requirements. You have passed every test put before you. You are here now.
“We have very few of you within the continent and you are part of those few. And we will provide you all the support in advocacy, in standards, in regulations, and in representing you in the global economy of the political class; wherever it may be,” he said.
Fatokun noted that the airline has been able to beat odds in record time to attain this feat, and is determined to continue growing at the same pace, adding that no airline within the region has been able to set such a record.
“When you look at when United Nigeria Airlines started scheduled operations and when they got IOSA Certification and when they are getting their IATA membership Certificate, it is very short in record time.
“This is a testimony of the rapid growth that we are seeing with United Nigeria. I can’t remember airlines within this region that have gone so fast in becoming an IATA member. I have seen several airlines that have been in operations for decades that have not gotten to this level at this very short time.
“And I talked about the drive within the organization to comply with global standards and recommended practices. It also tells about the desire of this organization to continue to grow and get to where it should be,” said Fatokun.
On his part, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of United Nigeria Airlines, Dr Obiora Okonkwo thanked IATA for making such a huge commitment to support operations of the airline at the global level.
He expressed appreciation to God and members of his staff for becoming a workforce that desires to actualise the vision of the airline.
“It is good to know that we now have our back being watched by IATA. And for this unprecedented success and achievement, we entirely dedicate that to God almighty.
“And all the credit should go to the management team that is ably led by the executive director and the CO. I am very proud of this team. I am glad that we have been able to translate our vision into reality. We are believing in God that this is the beginning, not an end,” said Okonkwo.
