The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has advised the Enugu State Government and airline operators not to allow bureaucracy hinder the smooth running of Enugu Air.
Keyamo gave this warning on Monday during the official launch of Enugu Air at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu. He stressed the importance of good management to ensure the airline’s success and long-term sustainability.
The airline, named Enugu Air, is operated by XEJet, a private Nigerian airline. The Enugu State Government acquired three aircraft for the venture with financial backing from Fidelity Bank PLC. One of the aircraft officially began operations on Monday, flying passengers from Lagos to Enugu.
Speaking at the launch, Keyamo described the initiative as part of the aviation goals set by the Bola Tinubu administration. He said one of the administration’s priorities is to grow and support local airline operators across the country.
“This is one of our dreams that has come true here today in Enugu, powered by the incredible efforts of Governor Peter Mbah,” Keyamo said.
He also praised Governor Mbah for his commitment, revealing that the Enugu governor was one of the first to visit him after his appointment as Minister of Aviation, pushing for the state-owned airline project.
“Through his persistence, we approved the partnership with XEJet, which already had an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC), making the launch of Enugu Air possible,” the minister added.
Keyamo urged all stakeholders involved to keep the airline free from unnecessary delays or administrative red tape, stressing that efficiency is key to building a reliable state-owned carrier.