United Nigeria Airlines is to acquire up to 10 Boeing 737-800s formerly operated by US low-cost carrier Southwest Airlines.
It has agreed to take six initial aircraft under a purchase brokered in partnership with SkyWorks Holdings.
United Nigeria’s operations have previously focused on Embraer ERJ regional jets.
But executive chair Obiora Okonkwo says the 737-800s will “pave the way for a more profitable expansion and growth”.
“The new fleet will enable us to operate new flights into approved domestic, regional and international [destinations], lift more passengers and cargo at competitive fares, and provide efficient point-to-point travel,” he adds.
It will also enable passengers to avoid “inefficient stopovers”.
He says the airline has “expressed interest” in a further four aircraft – giving it 10 in total – adding that the fleet will be integrated into the carrier’s operations over the course of a year from the first quarter of 2026.
Okonkwo says United Nigeria is receiving “strong support” from Boeing during the process and this will ensure a smooth entry into service.
“The excellent maintenance culture of Southwest Airlines, which is in line with United Nigeria Airlines’ culture, motivated us to make the acquisition,” he adds.
“We are looking forward to continued collaboration with Southwest Airlines post-delivery in different areas such as training and maintenance support.”
SkyWorks Holdings chief commercial officer Anders Hebrand says the “top-of-the-line” aircraft have “found a great home in the growing African aviation market”.
Boeing unveiled a partnership agreement a year ago with Nigeria’s federal ministry of aviation which intended to strengthen the country’s air transport sector. Under this agreement Boeing planned to provide planning, training and technical support to airlines.
