The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has officially launched the first international service by Enugu Air, a state-owned airline, to Douala, Cameroon. This milestone was achieved at a brief ceremony held at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu. Mbah described the launch as a significant step towards realizing his administration's vision of transforming Enugu State into a major aviation hub and a preferred destination for investment, business, tourism, and living.
During the ceremony, Mbah commended the leadership of Enugu Air for the rapid growth of the airline, which obtained its Air Operator's License just six months after a rigorous regulatory process. He noted that Enugu Air's growth is part of a larger plan to connect Enugu State to the world, with the goal of creating a $30 billion economy. Mbah emphasized that the airline is not just a symbol of achievement but a tool for economic growth and development.
The Enugu-Douala service marks the beginning of Enugu Air's international flight operations, with plans to expand to other destinations worldwide. Mbah thanked President Bola Tinubu for his support for aviation infrastructure development and the Minister of Aviation and Aerodrome Development, Festus Keyama, for his role in enabling Enugu Air's growth. The governor also acknowledged the contributions of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in supporting Enugu Air's operations.
Enugu Air's CEO, Capt. Tolu Ita, described the launch of the international service as a new chapter in the airline's history, making Enugu a gateway to new opportunities. She emphasized that Enugu Air's vision is to build an airline that connects people, markets, and possibilities, both domestically and internationally. Ita highlighted the airline's commitment to upholding the highest operational and ethical standards as it continues to grow its network across Africa.
The Managing Director/CEO of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Onabanjo-Kuku, congratulated Enugu Air on its inaugural international flight, describing it as a strong statement of Nigeria's growing capacity to connect people and businesses across West and Central Africa. She assured that FAAN remains committed to providing the necessary infrastructure, safety standards, and support for Enugu Air's operations. The Director General of the NCAA also expressed support for the airline's growth and its role in strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and Cameroon.
The Commissioner for Trade, Investment, and Industry, Dr. Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, welcomed the new service, describing it as a monumental leap forward in Enugu State's trade, investment, and economic integration strategy. He noted that the direct link between Enugu and Douala would advance the state's goal of becoming a premier regional hub for commerce and industrial development. The maiden flight departed Akanu Ibiam International Airport in the early hours of the afternoon and touched down safely at the Douala International Airport, where it was received by Cameroonian authorities.
The launch of Enugu Air's international service marks a significant milestone in Enugu State's aviation history, with the potential to boost economic growth, trade, and tourism. The airline's growth is seen as a testament to the state's commitment to developing its aviation sector and creating new opportunities for its citizens. As Enugu Air continues to expand its network, it is expected to play a major role in connecting Nigeria and Cameroon, as well as the wider West and Central African region.
Key points
- Enugu Air's international service to Douala, Cameroon, marks a major milestone in Enugu State's aviation hub vision.
- The airline's growth is part of a larger plan to connect Enugu State to the world and create a $30 billion economy.
- The launch of the international service is expected to boost economic growth, trade, and tourism in Enugu State and the wider region.
