By Emmanuel Kwada
Enugu State soared to new heights today with the official launch of Enugu Air, a state-owned commercial airline, at Akanu Ibiam International Airport. The historic event, attended by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, and other dignitaries, marks a bold step in Governor Peter Mbah’s vision to transform Enugu into a major aviation hub and a global competiton
‘If The Governor Is Two Minutes Late, Close The Door And Take-off’ Keyamo Tells Enugu Air CEO
Run it professionally. Don’t give free tickets to your friends. If you want it to survive, support the airline
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development of Nigeria, Festus Keyamo pic.twitter.com/oCpuDaNIoR
— ARISE NEWS (@ARISEtv) July 7, 2025
Enugu Air, equipped with an initial fleet of three Embraer aircraft (E170 and E190 series), took off with its inaugural routes connecting Enugu to Lagos and Abuja, forming a “golden triangle” of regional connectivity.
Plans are underway to expand services to Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin, Kano, and other strategic cities across Nigeria and beyond, aligning with the state’s ambition to boost economic growth and regional integration.
We are building a future where Enugu competes globally. That future has ample space for that child in our smart school dreaming of a career in aviation
Speaking at the launch, Governor Peter Mbah declared, “We are building a future where Enugu competes globally. That future has ample space for that child in our smart school dreaming of a career in aviation.”
His words underscored the airline’s role in fostering opportunities for the youth and positioning Enugu as a beacon of innovation and progress. Mbah emphasized that Enugu Air is a cornerstone of his administration’s integrated blueprint for a modern, multimodal transport ecosystem, designed to elevate the state’s economic profile from a $4.4 billion GDP to an ambitious $30 billion.
Happening Now:Enugu Air formally unveiled at Enugu Airport today.
Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/KV1LklkvNK
— Chudé (@chude__) July 7, 2025
Dr. Obi Ozor, Enugu State’s Commissioner for Transportation, echoed the governor’s sentiments, stating, “Enugu Air is a critical part of Governor Peter Mbah’s vision for a modern, integrated transportation network that drives economic growth and regional connectivity.
With a strong foundation of innovation and sustainability, we are ready to redefine air travel, instill pride, and elevate Enugu’s prominence on the national and global stage.”
Enugu Air is a critical part of Governor Peter Mbah’s vision for a modern, integrated transportation network that drives economic growth
The launch has sparked excitement across the state, with local leaders and residents celebrating the milestone. Hon. Uchenna J. Okolo, Executive Chairman of Awgu LGA, praised Mbah’s leadership, stating on X, “I’m proud to stand with a leader redefining progress and pushing Enugu into global relevance.” Similarly, posts on X hailed the launch as a testament to Mbah’s transformative vision, with sentiments like
Lift off! We have a lift off! ✈️
Enugu Air takes to the skies!
Peter Mbah’s vision of making Enugu a major transportation hub in Africa and attracting 3 million visitors annually to Enugu is fast becoming a reality.
Enugu Airline begins domestic flights with 3 aircrafts… pic.twitter.com/b4JBAYW4vq
— Henry (@Henroo121) July 7, 2025
Enugu Air follows the footsteps of Akwa Ibom’s Ibom Air, launched in 2019, as Nigeria’s second state-owned airline. Industry watchers say the airline’s entry could reshape regional aviation by offering more travel options and fostering competition on high-traffic domestic routes.
The launch event, filled with traditional drums, flashing cameras, and a gleaming Enugu Air jet under the Enugu sun, was described by @AfiaTvOfficial on X as “not just a launch, it’s a legacy in motion.”
As Enugu Air takes to the skies, it carries the aspirations of a state determined to soar to new heights, with Governor Mbah’s vision paving the way for a future where Enugu’s children can dream big and compete on a global stage.
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