United Nigeria backs young visually impaired, contestant wins talent show

In its ongoing effort to promote inclusivity, one of Nigeria’s leading operators, United Nigeria Airlines (UNA), at the weekend, supported young talents who took part in a singing competition organised for people living with disabilities.

The airline co-sponsored the blind segment of the ‘Henrotion in Expression’ event held in Port Harcourt on Sunday, where Sarima Owhur (Sari Wonder) walked away with a cash prize of N100,000 after delivering a standout vocal performance.

The first runner-up, Kelly Zion, was also rewarded after comedian Funny Bone, who was present at the show, pledged an additional N100,000 in recognition of the contestant’s talent.

The event, which showcased the vocal talents of several visually impaired young Nigerians, was co-sponsored by United Nigeria Airlines as part of its continued support for persons living with disabilities.

Organisers say the initiative was designed to give visually impaired talents a platform to express themselves and be celebrated for their abilities rather than their challenges.

After being presented with her award, the winner, Sari Wonder, said: “I want to say thank you, United Nigeria Airlines. I don’t know what to say; all I can say is thank you very much.”

The founder of the Vision Rehab Centre and consultant ophthalmologist, Dr Adedayo Adio, who commended the winner, who is part of the centre, said, “Vision Rehab Centres, especially privately owned ones, require a lot of funding. For those whose parents are unable to care for them, we seek funding to enrol them in school and teach them vocational skills. We have a low vision arm where we train eye care workers. We train them to do what everyone else can do; we teach them all the skills they need to make a living. We want them to be able to blend in properly.”

Presenting the award to the winner, the Port Harcourt Station Manager of United Nigeria Airlines, Uche Magbo, who represented the airline at the event, commended the contestants for their courage and talent.

He said: “At United Nigeria Airlines, we believe true inclusion means giving a voice and a platform to those who are too often overlooked. At the weekend, we watched young people living with disabilities show us that talent has no limits and that vision is not a requirement for greatness.

“This is why we are proud to stand behind initiatives like this one. We will never fail to support young, talented, and hard-working Nigerians who are determined to rise above their circumstances. Congratulations to Sari Wonder, Kelly Zion, and every contestant; you have inspired us all. United Nigeria Airlines will continue to fly the flag of inclusion, encouragement, and opportunity for people living with disabilities across this nation.”

The founder of Henrotion, Henry Aniakor, thanked United Nigeria Airlines for its support, describing the partnership as instrumental to the event’s success.

He said, “We thank United Nigeria Airlines for believing in our vision and partnering with us. Your support helped bring to life an unforgettable experience, marked by creativity, excellence, meaningful connections, outstanding entertainment, and lasting impact. We are truly grateful for your trust and look forward to building an even stronger partnership in the years ahead.”

United Nigeria Airlines has, over time, demonstrated its commitment to inclusion and empowerment by regularly supporting initiatives that give young, talented Nigerians the opportunity to showcase their abilities.

Wole Shadare