United Nigeria Airlines has paid tribute to Ghana’s late President, Jerry John Rawlings, by naming one of its aircraft after him.
The J.J. Rawlings aircraft arrived in Accra on Monday, November 10, 2025, as the airline’s inaugural flight from Abuja.
Dignitaries on board included Ghana’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Baba Jamal, and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of United Nigeria Airlines, Chief Professor Obiora Okonkwo, senior Nigerian Aviation officials and a host of others.
The aircraft was unveiled at a ceremony at Kotoka International Airport’s Terminal 3, Gate C8, with representatives from the Rawlings family in attendance.
Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, expressed gratitude to United Nigeria Airlines for the honor, stating that “today the hearts of men, President Rawlings referred to, has been manifested in the naming of the United Airlines aircraft after him.”
“The legend lives on” is inscribed on the aircraft, symbolizing Rawlings’ enduring legacy.
Mr. Adams highlighted Rawlings’ role in Ghana’s rural electrification project, inspired by his night-time flights across the country.
Former Minister for Information, Fritz Baffour, representing the Rawlings family, thanked United Nigeria Airlines, stating that “when Nigeria and Ghana get together, no one can stand us; If we come together, we will be bigger than the United States.”
Chief Professor Obiora Okonkwo observed a minute’s silence for former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings (wife of Jerry John Rawlings) and promised to bring quality to West Africa’s aviation industry.
