Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has taken a major step toward his ambitious vision of transforming the state’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion with the launch of a new state-backed airline, Enugu Air. The airline, which was officially unveiled on July 7, is the first of its kind in the state’s over 30-year history and marks a major milestone in Mbah’s broader economic transformation plan.
The launch, which featured three Embraer aircraft and an inaugural flight, is part of the state’s N971 billion 2025 budget tagged “Budget of Exponential Growth and Inclusive Prosperity.” With N41.1 billion allocated to the transport sector, the state has prioritized aviation infrastructure, including the acquisition of four aircraft, concessioning of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, and development of a new international cargo terminal.
Despite awaiting a full Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Enugu Air has already commenced operations in partnership with private carrier XEJet. Bookings are being handled through XEJet’s platform in the interim.
At the launch event, Mbah described the airline as a strategic enabler of economic expansion. “With our airline, we are opening doors to a sector that once felt out of reach. Enugu Air has given more wings to our dreams,” he said. He emphasized that the initiative is not just about air travel but about building capacity, creating jobs, and attracting investment.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who commissioned the airline, hailed Mbah’s efforts, calling him “one of the best performing governors in Nigeria.” Keyamo said the initiative would position Enugu as a key aviation hub in the country.
Enugu Air joins Ibom Air as one of Nigeria’s few state-owned airlines. It will operate key domestic routes including Abuja, Lagos, Kano, and Port Harcourt, with plans to expand into African and global destinations such as China, the UK, and the US.
The initiative has sparked widespread commendation across the state and beyond. Experts believe the airline could become a major revenue driver for the state and significantly boost tourism, trade, and employment.
Finance analyst Dr. Joseph Nnaji remarked, “With Enugu Air, the $30 billion economy projection is no longer a fantasy. It is now a clear and possible target.” He added that for the project to succeed, it must be run with a strong business focus and free from political interference.
Mbah’s focus on transportation reform also includes the construction of modern bus terminals and the procurement of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses. Motor parks at Holy Ghost, Gariki, Ninth Mile, and Nsukka have been demolished and are being replaced with world-class transit terminals. These are part of the planned Enugu Central Station, with dedicated inter-city and intra-city transport facilities aimed at easing traffic congestion, enhancing commuter safety, and creating jobs.
Real estate developer, Arc. Chibuikem Onyekachi, described the airline as a move that will “stimulate economic activities and boost investor confidence across the Southeast.” He predicted a surge in real estate and infrastructure demand as a result of improved connectivity.
Civil rights advocate, Matthew Igwe, noted that the initiative has silenced critics. “When it was announced in the 2025 budget, many of us were skeptical. But the governor has delivered. Now, we see real diversification and the potential for long-term revenue generation,” he said.
Observers view Mbah’s bold foray into aviation and transport as a strategic shift away from dependence on federal allocations. With a growing list of infrastructural projects and public-private partnerships, Enugu under Mbah is positioning itself as a modern investment hub and a regional powerhouse in the Southeast.
The coming years will be critical as the state seeks to ensure the sustainability and profitability of Enugu Air. Analysts believe that with clear leadership, private sector efficiency, and ongoing reforms, the airline could become a model for other states seeking to unlock economic potential through transport infrastructure.
