The North-East Governors' Forum (NEGF) has committed ₦10.8 billion in counterpart funding towards the establishment of a regional airline, named the North East Air Shuttle. The airline aims to improve air connectivity across Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe states. This development was announced by the chairman of the forum and Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, during the opening ceremony of the 10th meeting of the North-East Governors' Forum in Maiduguri.
According to Zulum, the six states in the region contributed the sum of ₦10.8 billion through counterpart contributions. He assured that the outstanding funds would be remitted before the end of October to facilitate the take-off of the proposed carrier. The establishment of the North East Air Shuttle is seen as a significant step towards improving transportation links across the sub-region. Zulum expressed optimism that flight operations would commence soon.
The proposed carrier is expected to improve movement between states in the North-East, reduce dependence on road transportation for some journeys, and facilitate business, trade, and other economic activities across the region. The initiative represents an effort by the state governments to strengthen regional cooperation through a shared transportation project. This is particularly important in a sub-region where distances between major cities and commercial centres can make road travel lengthy.
The North-East region comprises Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe states. Its vast geographical spread and transportation challenges have made improved connectivity an important consideration for regional economic development. The region has also endured years of insurgency and insecurity, particularly in parts of Borno and neighbouring states, disrupting economic activities, displacing communities, and complicating movement in affected areas.
A regional airline could provide an additional transportation option for businesspeople, government officials, investors, and other travellers, while supporting commerce and improving access to services across the six states. The North East Air Shuttle is being pursued through financial cooperation among the governors, with the ₦10.8 billion raised marking a major funding milestone.
However, the governors have yet to announce specific operational details, including the airline's fleet, proposed routes, ownership and management structure, ticket prices, and the exact date for the commencement of commercial flights. Zulum urged the six member states to consolidate their financial commitments and work collectively to ensure the smooth take-off of the regional airline.
The governors say the outstanding contributions are expected before the end of October, although the actual commencement of operations will depend on the completion of the necessary funding and operational arrangements. The North East Air Shuttle is expected to have a positive impact on the region's economy and transportation network.
Key points
- North-East Governors' Forum commits ₦10.8 billion to regional airline.
- The airline aims to improve air connectivity across six states in the region.
- The governors target October for the completion of outstanding contributions and the commencement of flight operations.
