Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has officially unveiled Enugu Air, Nigeria’s state-owned airline, marking a significant milestone in the state’s economic transformation agenda. The inaugural flight took off Monday from Akanu Ibiam International Airport, with Governor Mbah describing it as “a giant leap” for the region’s development.
The airline launch represents a key achievement of Mbah’s administration, which pledged to position Enugu as a premier investment and tourism hub. “This isn’t just about air travel—it’s about creating enablers for enterprise and sectors that once seemed impossible,” Mbah stated during the ceremony. The project was developed through a public-private partnership, though specific investors were not disclosed.
Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo used the occasion to clarify ongoing plans to concession (not sell) the Enugu airport to private operators, a move he said would modernize facilities including a new cargo terminal to boost regional exports. “This will create jobs and allow direct export processing from Enugu,” Keyamo explained, praising Mbah for proactively driving infrastructure development.
The launch comes as Enugu State pursues an ambitious N1.5 trillion ($1.1 billion) infrastructure plan. Analysts suggest the airline could improve regional connectivity, though questions remain about its operational model and funding. With this move, Enugu becomes the first Nigerian state to venture into commercial aviation operations.
