United Nigeria Airlines Backs Inclusion as Visually Impaired Singer Wins Talent Competition
United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusion and empowering persons living with disabilities by supporting a talent competition for visually impaired singers, with contestant Sarima Owhur, popularly known as Sari Wonder, emerging as the overall winner.
The airline co-sponsored the blind segment of the Henrotion in Expression event held in Port Harcourt on Sunday, where Sari Wonder impressed judges and the audience with her vocal performance to claim the top prize of N100,000.
Another contestant, Kelly Zion, who finished as the first runner-up, also received recognition after popular Nigerian comedian Funny Bone announced an additional cash reward of N100,000 in appreciation of the contestant’s exceptional talent.
The event brought together several visually impaired young Nigerians who showcased their musical abilities, providing a platform for participants to demonstrate their talents and challenge stereotypes surrounding disability.
Organisers said the initiative was created to celebrate the abilities of persons living with disabilities, particularly those with visual impairment, while encouraging greater social inclusion and equal opportunities.
Receiving her award after being announced winner, an emotional Sari Wonder expressed gratitude to the airline for supporting the initiative.
“I want to say thank you, United Nigeria Airlines. I don’t know what to say; all I can say is thank you very much,” she said.
Founder of the Vision Rehab Centre and consultant ophthalmologist, Dr Adedayo Adio, praised the winner, who is one of the centre’s beneficiaries, while highlighting the financial challenges involved in supporting visually impaired persons.
According to him, privately owned rehabilitation centres require substantial funding to provide education, vocational training and rehabilitation services for people whose families are unable to cater for their needs.
He explained that the Vision Rehab Centre equips visually impaired individuals with vocational and life skills to enable them become self-reliant and integrate fully into society.
“We train them to do what everyone else can do; we teach them all the skills they need to make a living. We want them to be able to blend in properly,” Adio said.
Presenting the award on behalf of the airline, United Nigeria Airlines’ Port Harcourt Station Manager, Uche Magbo, applauded the contestants for demonstrating resilience, determination and extraordinary talent.
He said the airline believes that genuine inclusion means creating opportunities for people who are often overlooked and ensuring they are recognised for their abilities.
“At United Nigeria Airlines, we believe true inclusion means giving a voice and a platform to those who are too often overlooked,” Magbo said.
“At the weekend, we watched young people living with disabilities show us that talent has no limits and that vision is not a requirement for greatness. This is why we are proud to stand behind initiatives like this one.
“We will never fail to support young, talented and hard-working Nigerians who are determined to rise above their circumstances. Congratulations to Sari Wonder, Kelly Zion and every contestant. You have inspired us all.
“United Nigeria Airlines will continue to fly the flag of inclusion, encouragement and opportunity for people living with disabilities across this nation.”
Founder of Henrotion, Henry Aniakor, commended the airline for partnering with the organisers, describing its support as vital to the success of the programme.
“We thank United Nigeria Airlines for believing in our vision and partnering with us. Your support helped bring to life an unforgettable experience marked by creativity, excellence, meaningful connections, outstanding entertainment and lasting impact.
“We are truly grateful for your trust and look forward to building an even stronger partnership in the years ahead,” Aniakor said.
United Nigeria Airlines has consistently supported initiatives aimed at promoting inclusion, youth development and talent discovery, reflecting a broader commitment to corporate social responsibility beyond its core aviation business.
Disability advocates have continued to stress the importance of creating opportunities that allow persons living with disabilities to showcase their talents, noting that such initiatives help break down barriers, promote social acceptance and encourage equal participation in all aspects of national life.
