Keyamo Inaugurates Enugu Air, Urges Professional Management to Avoid Bureaucratic Pitfalls
Enugu, Nigeria – The Nigerian aviation sector marked a significant milestone on Monday as Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, officially launched Enugu Air, a new state-owned airline. During the inauguration ceremony, Keyamo emphasized the importance of professional management to ensure the airline’s sustainability and avoid the fate of defunct national carriers.
A New Era for Regional Aviation
The newly established Enugu Air begins operations with three aircraft acquired by the Enugu State Government through financing from Fidelity Bank PLC. The airline is being operated in partnership with XEJet, a private Nigerian airline operator. The launch was marked by a symbolic inaugural flight from Lagos to Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.
Keyamo described the initiative as a fulfillment of President Bola Tinubu’s five-point aviation agenda, which includes supporting local operators and encouraging the establishment of indigenous airlines. “This is one of our dreams that came true here today in Enugu State,” the minister stated, acknowledging Governor Peter Mbah’s persistent efforts to make the project a reality.
Government Officials Emphasize Economic Potential
Governor Mbah outlined his administration’s vision to transform Enugu into a premier destination for investment, living, and tourism. “What we are witnessing today is a clear pathway to that goal,” he said, describing the airline as an economic enabler and job creator that will position Enugu as a regional hub for Southeast Nigeria and beyond.
The airline will initially operate routes connecting Enugu to Abuja and Lagos, with plans to expand to Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin, Kano, and other cities. “We are starting off with three aircraft made for our terrain,” Mbah explained, expressing optimism about the airline’s potential impact.
Financial and Operational Partnerships
Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank PLC, highlighted the bank’s commitment to financing transformative projects. “Our support for Enugu Air reflects our long-standing belief in aviation as a driver of economic growth,” she said, emphasizing the project’s potential to boost tourism, commerce, and employment.
XEJet CEO Emmanuel Iza detailed the technical partnership between his company and Enugu Air, which will last 24 months while the new airline works to obtain its own Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC). “Our mission goes beyond air travel,” Iza stated. “It’s about building a brand that reflects the spirit of its people.”
Warnings Against Bureaucratic Challenges
Minister Keyamo issued a cautionary note during the inauguration, urging stakeholders to avoid the pitfalls that led to the collapse of previous national carriers. “Do not let the airline go the way of Nigerian Airways,” he warned. “I beg you to run it professionally and do not let bureaucracy kill Enugu Air.”
Dr. Obi Ozor, Enugu State Commissioner for Transport, praised Governor Mbah for transforming the state’s transport sector, stating that the airline would redefine regional connectivity and position Enugu as a global gateway.
Looking to the Future
The launch of Enugu Air represents a significant development in Nigeria’s aviation landscape, particularly for the southeastern region. With its strategic partnerships and government backing, the airline aims to address long-standing connectivity challenges while stimulating economic growth.
As operations commence, all eyes will be on the management team to deliver on the promise of a professionally run, sustainable airline that avoids the bureaucratic and financial challenges that have plagued previous aviation ventures in Nigeria.
Full credit to the original publisher: Daily Nigerian