Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has officially launched the state-owned airline, Enugu Air, calling it a major milestone for the state and a benchmark for public-private sector collaboration.
The airline’s maiden flight took off on Monday, a moment the governor described as historic for Ndi Enugu.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Mbah stated that the initiative aligned with his administration’s broader vision of positioning Enugu as a prime destination for investment, tourism, and quality living in Nigeria.
“It is an honour to address you today—not just as your governor but as a firm believer in the power of vision,” he said.
Although the launch came a few weeks after his administration marked its second anniversary, Mbah described it as “a fitting gift to Ndi Enugu.”
He explained that Enugu Air was more than just a means of transport; it symbolised a bold move to enable enterprise and unlock new sectors of the economy.
“We started this journey with no empty promises. Among our core goals was to transform Enugu into the leading hub for investment and tourism. Today’s launch represents a clear step towards that ambition,” he declared.
Governor Mbah also emphasised that the success of Enugu Air demonstrates the potential of strategic partnerships between government and the private sector.
“With our own airline, we are entering a sector that once seemed out of reach. Enugu Air has given flight to our dreams, and today we begin that journey together,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, addressed concerns surrounding the status of Enugu airport. He clarified that the airport was not being sold, but concessioned to private investors.
“I’ve seen comments suggesting we are selling off the airport. That’s not true—we are concessioning it. The process is backed by the President, FAAN, the Ministry, and the National Assembly committees,” Keyamo said.
He noted that the forthcoming cargo terminal would stimulate regional trade and employment. “From now on, exports can be processed directly from Enugu. This development will benefit the people of the state significantly,” he said.
Keyamo also commended Governor Mbah for taking decisive steps to attract private investment and for refusing to allow bureaucracy to stall progress.