From CHARLES ONYEKWERE
Enugu State governor, Mr Peter Mbah has officially launched Enugu Air, marking a major milestone in the state’s ambition to become a regional aviation and economic hub.
Speaking at the launch yesterday, the governor hailed the initiative as a triumph of vision and a critical step toward unlocking the vast potentials of the South East.
“This is a triumph of vision, a testament to Nigeria’s immense aviation potentials and economic renaissance, but the significance of this event transcends the thrill of novelty; neither is it about sheer bragging rights. We are doing this for a specific reason.
“For our own young people who will pursue fast careers in aviation, logistics, tourism and hospitality. For our business community that needs faster and more reliable markets, clients and capital,” he said.
Mbah expressed gratitude to Dr Nneka Onyealikpe, the financial partner behind the airline, for her belief in the project and commitment to bringing it to life.
According to him, Enugu Air is launching with three Embraer aircrafts chosen for their reliability, efficiency and suitability for Nigeria’s terrain.
He said the initial flight routes would form a strategic triangle connecting Enugu to Abuja and Lagos, with subsequent expansion to Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin and other domestic destinations.
In its second phase, Enugu Air plans to launch international operations to other African countries, as well as global hubs, including China, Europe and the United States of America.
Mbah emphasised that beyond connectivity, the airline serves as an “economic enabler, job creator and strategic platform” for Enugu’s emergence as a commercial centre in the South East and beyond.
He also highlighted the significance for local graduates from numerous tertiary institutions who aspire to careers in aviation, logistics and hospitality.
