July 08, (THEWILL) — The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, on Tuesday inaugurated the maiden flight of Enugu Air, a state-owned airline established by the Enugu State Government under the leadership of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.
The historic event, held at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, was marked by fanfare and optimism, heralding a significant step in enhancing regional connectivity and deepening Nigeria’s domestic aviation landscape.
Keyamo, who led a high-powered federal delegation to the event, praised the Enugu State Government for its foresight and investment in aviation.
Among those who accompanied him were the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo; the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku; the Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Farouk Umar; and senior officials from key aviation agencies.
Describing the launch as a “trailblazing initiative,” the Minister said the birth of Enugu Air exemplifies what state governments can achieve with bold vision and strategic partnerships.
Keyamo said, “Today’s inauguration of Enugu Air is not just about adding a new carrier to our skies, it is about demonstrating political will, visionary leadership, and regional empowerment.
“Governor Mbah has shown what is possible when states actively invest in critical infrastructure that stimulates economic growth and positions Nigeria as a continental aviation hub.”
In his remarks, Governor Mbah thanked the minister and his team for their support and described the new airline as a key pillar of his administration’s broader economic transformation agenda.
The governor said: “Enugu Air is more than a means of transport; it is a bridge connecting us to the world and bringing the world to Enugu.
“With the unwavering support of the Federal Ministry of Aviation, we are confident this project will boost tourism, commerce, and industry across the South-East and beyond.”
Enugu Air will be operated in partnership with Xejet, a fast-rising airline led by aviation entrepreneur Emmanuel Iza. The collaboration is expected to deliver high safety standards, premium service, and operational excellence.
The airline is kicking off with flights to major domestic destinations, with plans to expand to regional and international routes as demand increases.
The Federal Ministry of Aviation reiterated its readiness to support such public-private collaborations, promising a conducive regulatory environment that prioritises safety, sustainability, and global best practices.
The event ended with a ceremonial water salute for the aircraft, a tour of the airline’s facilities, and renewed commitments by both federal and state governments to foster aviation growth in Nigeria
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
