Enugu Air Takes Off: Keyamo, Mbah Unveil Landmark Airline to Power Regional Connectivity and Economic Growth
In a bold stride toward regional integration and economic revitalization, the Federal Government and the Enugu State Government on Monday jointly launched Enugu Air, a state-owned airline, set to operate under technical guidance from private carrier XEJet for its first 24 months.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, who presided over the formal inauguration at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, commended Enugu’s vision while cautioning the airline’s operators against bureaucratic inefficiencies and mismanagement.
“This is a dream realized. But I urge you—do not let bureaucracy kill Enugu Air. Run it like a business. Let it not go the way of the defunct Nigerian Airways,” Keyamo warned.
A Strategic Collaboration: Public Vision, Private Expertise, Bank-Backed Capital
Enugu Air is a product of a tripartite partnership:
- Enugu State Government: Project initiator and owner of the aircraft.
- Fidelity Bank Plc: Project financier, providing structured capital to support operations.
- XEJet: Technical operator with an existing Air Operator Certificate (AOC).
The airline launches with three Embraer E-Jets designed for regional routes and terrain efficiency. Initial destinations include Enugu–Lagos, Enugu–Abuja, with plans to expand into Owerri, Port Harcourt, Benin, Kano, and eventually, cross-border destinations.
Governor Mbah: “We Are Creating the Infrastructure for a New Enugu”
Governor Peter Mbah, whose administration has prioritized infrastructure-driven growth, described Enugu Air as a “strategic economic enabler”, designed to:
- Drive regional investment inflow
- Position Enugu as the Southeast’s aviation and tourism hub
- Enable affordable, efficient, and scalable air connectivity
“This is not just a launch. It’s a declaration that Enugu is open for business, tourism, and innovation,” Mbah said.
“Enugu Air gives wings to our dreams, and today, we take that first flight together.”
Mbah praised President Tinubu, Minister Keyamo, the NCAA, XEJet CEO Emmanuel Iza, and Fidelity Bank CEO Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe for their roles in making the vision a reality.
Fidelity Bank: Aviation as an Engine for Economic Transformation
Speaking at the event, Fidelity Bank CEO, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, said the bank’s commitment reflects its belief in aviation as a critical lever for unlocking regional prosperity.
“We are proud to finance tomorrow’s opportunities today. Enugu Air will catalyze commerce, accelerate tourism, and create thousands of jobs,” she said.
XEJet Partnership: 24-Month Technical Management Before AOC Transition
Mr. Emmanuel Iza, CEO of XEJet, disclosed that Enugu Air will operate under XEJet’s regulatory umbrella for the next 24 months while it works to acquire its own AOC and operational autonomy.
“This is about more than flying aircraft. It’s about building a proud brand that reflects the resilience and ambition of the Enugu people,” Iza noted.
Public Reception: A Landmark for the Southeast
Residents, traditional leaders, and business executives described the launch as a historic milestone for Enugu and the Southeast region.
- Igwe Ikechukwu Asadu, Chair of Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, hailed the airline as a gateway to global commerce.
- Powell Homes MD Chibuike Onyekachi predicted a real estate and infrastructure boom in the region.
- Traders and local business owners voiced optimism that Enugu Air will break monopolies, reduce airfare costs, and create jobs for youth.
“We’re not just building infrastructure; we’re building a future that flies above and beyond our past limitations,” said Dr. Eric Odo, Chairman, Igbo-Etiti Council.
BRANDECONOMY Insight: Enugu Air and the Business of Regional Aviation
The launch of Enugu Air reflects a growing trend of subnational investment in aviation infrastructure—a model that could reshape Nigeria’s regional air travel market.
The initiative:
- Positions Enugu as a regional aviation hub for the Southeast
- Provides a model for PPP-led airline development
- Enhances domestic air competition, long dominated by a few carriers
To succeed, Enugu Air must:
- Maintain commercial discipline
- Expand fleet efficiency and route viability
- Prioritize customer experience and operational reliability
If well-managed, it could become a blueprint for other states aiming to use aviation as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth.
