Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah officially launched the state-owned airline, Enugu Air, on Monday, July 7, 2025, describing it as a monumental achievement and a shining example of public-private partnership.
The airline’s inaugural flight marked a historic moment for the people of Enugu.
Speaking at the launch, the state governor emphasised that this accomplishment aligns perfectly with his administration’s ambitious vision: to transform Enugu into Nigeria’s top destination for investment, residence, and tourism.
“It is an honour to stand before you today, not only as a governor but as a fellow believer in the power of vision,” he declared.
Although the launch came weeks after his administration’s second anniversary, Mbah described it as “a fitting gift to Ndi Enugu.”
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He emphasised that Enugu Air is more than just an airline; it symbolises a bold stride toward fostering enterprise and unlocking sectors that once seemed beyond reach.
“We began this journey with no empty promises. Among the key objectives we outlined upon assuming office was the pledge to make Enugu the premier destination for investments, living, and tourism in Nigeria. Today, we are witnessing a clear pathway to that goal,” the governor said.
The launch of Enugu Air, according to Mbah, also signified the possibilities that could emerge when strategic public-private collaborations were nurtured.
He added, “With our airline, we are opening doors to a sector that once felt out of reach. Enugu Air has given more wings to our dreams, and today we take that first flight together.”
Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, addressed public concerns over the fate of the Enugu airport, clarifying that the facility was not being sold but concessioned to private investors.
“I have seen some comments saying, ‘No, we are selling Enugu airport out.’ We are concessioning it. The process is supported by the president, the FAAN, the Ministry of Aviation, and the National Assembly committees.
“We are just in the process of handing Enugu airport to private investors who will come and make this place open, including the cargo terminal,” he said.
According to Keyamo, the cargo terminal will significantly boost economic activities in the region.
“You can now process exports directly from Enugu here, at the cargo terminal, for the good of the Enugu people. I thought it was necessary to mention it here today.”
He commended Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State for his proactive approach in attracting private investment to the airport, highlighting the governor’s refusal to let bureaucracy stand in the way of progress.
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Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
What is Enugu Air?
Enugu Air is the newly launched state-owned airline of Enugu State, Nigeria. It’s described as a “giant leap” for the state and a prime example of successful government-private sector collaboration.
When was Enugu Air launched?
The inaugural flight of Enugu Air took off on Monday, July 7, 2025.
What is Governor Peter Mbah’s vision for Enugu Air?
Governor Mbah stated that the airline aligns with his administration’s vision to transform Enugu into a premier destination for investment, living, and tourism in Nigeria. He believes it will create enablers for enterprise and open up new economic sectors.
Is the Enugu airport being sold?
No, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, clarified that the Enugu airport is not being sold but is being concessioned to private investors. The President, FAAN, the Ministry of Aviation, and the National Assembly committees support this process.
How will the Enugu airport concession benefit the state?
The concession will allow private investors to operate and develop the airport, including a cargo terminal. This terminal is expected to significantly boost economic activities by enabling direct processing of exports from Enugu, creating jobs and opportunities for the people of Enugu.
