United Nigeria Airlines has marked the anniversary of the creation of 10 Nigerian states in August 1991, describing the event as a major turning point in the country’s history. The airline used the occasion to highlight the economic contributions of the states.

On August 27, 1991, the military government under General Ibrahim Babangida increased the number of states from 21 to 30. The states created that day were Abia, Adamawa, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kogi and Osun, while Taraba was created earlier on August 1 and Yobe shortly afterwards.

Chief Commercial Officer of the airline, Adedayo Olawuyi, said the creation of the states helped unlock greater economic potential across Nigeria.

He noted that the states have grown into important centres of manufacturing, trade, energy, agriculture and logistics.

Olawuyi pointed out that Abia and Enugu have become key manufacturing and trade corridors in the Southeast, while Delta plays a major role in energy production. Edo is a leading palm oil producer, and states such as Taraba, Adamawa, Jigawa, Kebbi and Yobe serve as agricultural hubs. Kogi, he added, acts as a vital transit link connecting different regions of the country.

The airline official stressed that aviation continues to support the growth of these states by linking business people, traders, families and students. He said every flight that helps expand businesses or reunite families is part of the broader vision that led to the creation of the states.

Photo credit: The Sun Nigeria