GhArticles.com Every News in Detail
Five years after the passing of Ghana’s former President, Jerry John Rawlings, United Nigeria Airlines has paid tribute to his enduring legacy by naming one of its aircraft in his honour.
The aircraft, christened “J.J. Rawlings,” made its maiden flight to Accra on Monday, November 10, 2025, marking United Nigeria Airlines’ inaugural flight between Abuja and Accra.
The historic event was graced by notable personalities, including Ghana’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Baba Jamal; Chief Professor Obiora Okonkwo, Chairman and CEO of United Nigeria Airlines; senior Nigerian aviation officials; and other distinguished guests.
Upon arrival at Kotoka International Airport, former Minister and MP for Ablekuma South, Fritz Baffour, representing the Rawlings family, joined Professor Okonkwo to unveil the aircraft inscription: “J.J. Rawlings… The legend lives on.”
During the short ceremony at Terminal 3, Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, expressed deep appreciation to the airline for the symbolic honour.
“President Rawlings once said he would rather live in the hearts of men than have his name on monuments or streets. Today, this has been fulfilled through the naming of this aircraft,” Mr. Adams said, adding that the tribute reflects the late President’s far-reaching influence across Africa.
He also highlighted Rawlings’ love for flying and how it inspired his drive for national development. “When he flew across Ghana at night and saw lights only in Accra and Kumasi, it motivated him to extend electricity to all parts of the country,” he remarked.
Representing the Rawlings family, Fritz Baffour described the honour as a heartfelt gesture that strengthens the bond between Ghana and Nigeria. “This gesture will remain forever. When Ghana and Nigeria unite, nothing can divide us,” he stated.
In his remarks, Professor Okonkwo offered condolences to the Rawlings family following the recent passing of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings and led a minute of silence in her memory.
He revealed that the idea to name the aircraft after J.J. Rawlings emerged during discussions about the fifth anniversary of his passing, noting that the late Ghanaian leader’s background as a trained Air Force pilot made the gesture even more fitting.
Professor Okonkwo assured that United Nigeria Airlines would continue to uphold high operational standards and contribute to strengthening aviation ties within West Africa. “We are committed to delivering quality, reliability, and strengthening the partnership between our two nations,” he affirmed.
