Station Manager for Port Harcourt, Uche Magbo, winner of the ‘Henrotion in Expression’ music competition, Sarima Owhur, event organiser, Henry Aniakor, presenting a certificate of achievement to the winner in Port Harcourt recently.
Visually Impaired Singers Receive Cash Gifts Through United Nigeria Airlines Support
United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) has reinforced its commitment to social inclusion by rewarding talented visually impaired young Nigerians with cash gifts at a singing competition in Port Harcourt. The airline’s support placed the spotlight on recognising ability rather than disability, with the overall winner receiving a cash prize of N100,000 after an outstanding performance.
The competition formed part of the Henrotion in Expression event, organised to provide people living with disabilities with a platform to showcase their talents. United Nigeria Airlines co-sponsored the blind category of the competition, demonstrating its continued investment in initiatives that promote opportunity, confidence and inclusion. Meanwhile, the event attracted supporters from the entertainment and disability advocacy communities.
The biggest winner of the day was Sarima Owhur, popularly known as Sari Wonder, whose vocal performance earned her the top prize of N100,000. In addition, first runner-up Kelly Zion also received N100,000 after popular comedian Funny Bone announced an extra cash reward in recognition of the contestant’s remarkable performance.
Receiving her prize, an emotional Sari Wonder expressed gratitude to the airline for believing in young people with disabilities.
“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 cash gifts represented more than financial support. They also served as recognition of the contestants’ determination, talent and resilience despite the challenges associated with visual impairment. Therefore, the event became a celebration of excellence and equal opportunity rather than limitation.
Organisers said the competition was designed to give visually impaired young Nigerians the opportunity to express themselves through music while changing public perceptions about disability. The initiative encouraged participants to pursue their dreams and demonstrated that talent can flourish when individuals are given the right platform.
Founder of the Vision Rehab Centre and consultant ophthalmologist, Dr Adedayo Adio, said such initiatives remain essential because many rehabilitation programmes depend on external support. He explained that the centre provides education, vocational training and low-vision rehabilitation to help beneficiaries become self-reliant members of society.
“Vision Rehab Centres, especially privately owned ones, require a lot of funding. For those whose parents are not able to take care of them, we look for funding to put them in school, and we also teach them vocations. We train them to do what everyone else can do. We teach them all the skills they need to make a living.”
Representing United Nigeria Airlines at the event, the airline’s Port Harcourt Station Manager, Uche Magbo, said inclusion requires creating opportunities for people whose abilities are often overlooked. He stressed that the airline remains committed to supporting talented Nigerians determined to overcome difficult circumstances.
“At United Nigeria Airlines, we believe true inclusion means giving a voice and a platform to those who are too often overlooked. We will never fail to support young, talented and hard-working Nigerians who are determined to rise above their circumstances.”
The founder of Henrotion, Henry Aniakor, also praised the airline’s contribution, describing its partnership as critical to the event’s success. He said the collaboration helped deliver an inspiring experience that celebrated creativity, entertainment and meaningful social impact.
United Nigeria Airlines has consistently supported programmes that empower young Nigerians and encourage inclusion across different communities. Consequently, its latest intervention through cash gifts for visually impaired singers reinforces the airline’s growing reputation as a corporate organisation committed to creating opportunities where they matter most.
