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Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf unveils plans to establish a state-owned commercial airline, with operations expected to begin within the next year.
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Proposed Kano Airline will provide direct employment opportunities for indigenous pilots trained under the state’s aviation scholarship programme.
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Governor pledges full government support for the airline project, describing it as part of his administration’s strategy to create jobs and strengthen the state’s economy.
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Kano State Pilot Association commends Yusuf for facilitating the revalidation of pilots’ licences and urges further assistance to secure final commercial flight certifications for members.
July 24, (THEWILL) — Kano State has joined the growing list of sub-national governments seeking to expand their presence in Nigeria’s aviation industry, with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf unveiling plans to establish a state-owned commercial airline expected to commence operations within the next year.
The initiative comes at a time when several state governments are exploring investments in air transportation to improve regional connectivity, stimulate economic activity and create employment.
While some state-backed airlines have struggled with funding, fleet acquisition, and regulatory hurdles, the Kano Government says its proposed carrier will be driven by a clear objective of providing jobs for professionally trained indigenous pilots.
Governor Yusuf announced the plan during the 40th Kano State Executive Council meeting held at the Government House, Kano, where he received several awards, including a special recognition from the Kano State Pilot Association for supporting members of the association to complete their aviation training.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House Kano, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the proposed airline is expected to commence commercial operations within one year.
“By the grace of God, the proposed Kano Airline is expected to commence operations within the next one year,” the governor said.
Yusuf said the proposed carrier would primarily serve as a platform to employ Kano indigenes who have completed professional pilot training, particularly those sponsored by the state government.
He assured members of the Kano State Pilot Association that his administration would provide the financial, institutional and logistical support required to ensure the successful establishment and operation of the airline.
The governor described the project as part of his administration’s broader commitment to youth empowerment, human capital development and economic diversification through strategic investment in the aviation sector.
He also expressed satisfaction with the performance of Kano-sponsored pilots who underwent professional flight training in Jordan under a programme initiated by a previous administration.
According to him, the outstanding achievements of the trainees have justified the state’s continued investment in aviation education and reinforced the need to create opportunities for them to practise their profession at home.
Yusuf reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the trained pilots contribute meaningfully to Kano’s economic development rather than seeking employment outside the state.
Pilot Association Applauds Governor
Earlier, Chairman of the Kano State Pilot Association, Naziru Ibrahim, praised Governor Yusuf for facilitating the revalidation of members’ flying licences, describing the intervention as a major boost to their professional careers.
He said the governor’s support had restored confidence among many pilots and demonstrated genuine commitment to developing aviation manpower in Kano State.
Ibrahim, however, appealed to the state government to assist members in securing their final professional certifications, which would qualify them to operate commercial flights within Nigeria and on international routes.
He expressed optimism that the planned airline would not only absorb qualified pilots but also boost the state’s economy, attract investment and improve air connectivity across northern Nigeria.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
