The Chief Operating Officer of United Nigeria Airlines, Osita Okonkwo, has confirmed that Nigeria is no longer blacklisted in the global aviation leasing market, paving the way for improved access to aircraft leasing opportunities.
“The important thing is that Nigeria is no longer on the blacklist. Nigeria was blacklisted before, but that is sorted,” Okonkwo stated.
He explained that while the country’s blacklisting issues have been resolved, individual airline operators must now negotiate directly with lessors to secure aircraft.
“So, individual operators, we now have to discuss flying the aircraft, discuss with lessors, meet their conditions, and then sign on the dotted lines.”
- Advertisement -
According to Okonkwo, Nigeria was previously considered a high-risk market, making it difficult for airlines to lease aircraft. However, with the improved rating, operators now have better opportunities.
The development is expected to ease aircraft acquisition for Nigerian airlines, enhancing the country’s aviation sector and boosting airline operations.
