BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
History was made in Enugu State yesterday as the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, officially inaugurated the maiden flight of Enugu Air, the new state-owned carrier launched by the Governor. Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.
This was disclosed by Keyamo’s Spokesman, Tunde Moshood.
The historic ceremony, he noted, was held at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport was marked by excitement and optimism, as it signaled a significant step forward in enhancing regional connectivity and deepening Nigeria’s domestic aviation network.
The Aviation Minister arrived in Enugu with a distinguished delegation, including Captain Chris Najomo, Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA); Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN); Engr. Farouk Umar, Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA); and other senior aviation officials.
Commending the Enugu State Government’s bold initiative, the Minister described the launch of Enugu Air as a “trailblazing initiative” and a shining example of what visionary leadership at the sub-national level can accomplish.
“Today’s inauguration of Enugu Air is not just a celebration of a new airline but a celebration of political will, visionary leadership, and regional empowerment,” Keyamo said.
“Governor Peter Mbah has demonstrated what is possible when states take the initiative to invest in critical infrastructure that unlocks economic opportunities and positions Nigeria as a cohesive aviation hub.”
In his welcome remarks, Governor Peter Mbah expressed appreciation to the Minister and the federal aviation agencies for their unwavering support.
He highlighted the launch of Enugu Air as a key part of his administration’s broader economic development agenda.
“Enugu Air is more than just a carrier; it is a symbol of our resolve to connect Enugu to the world and invite the world to Enugu,” the Governor stated.
“With the invaluable support of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and its agencies, we are proud to roll out a project that will catalyze tourism, commerce, and industrial growth across the South East and beyond.”
Enugu Air will be operated by Xejet, a rapidly growing airline helmed by aviation entrepreneur Mr. Emmanuel Iza.
The partnership is designed to deliver best-in-class service, safety, and reliability from day one.
With the successful completion of its inaugural flight, Enugu Air is set to commence regular commercial operations, initially connecting Enugu with major cities across Nigeria. Expansion plans to regional and international routes are already on the horizon as demand grows.
The Ministry of Aviation reaffirmed its support for such innovative public-private collaborations and pledged to maintain an enabling regulatory environment guided by global best practices, safety, and sustainability.
The event concluded with a ceremonial water salute for the aircraft, a facility tour, and strong expressions of continued collaboration between federal and state aviation stakeholders to advance the growth and competitiveness of Nigeria’s air transport industry.
