Enugu Air to Expand Globally as Governor Mbah Unveils Ambitious Aviation Vision

Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State says the newly launched Enugu Air will soon begin international operations, with future routes extending to China, Europe, the UK, the US, and other African nations.

Speaking on Monday at the airline’s inauguration in Enugu, Governor Mbah revealed that Enugu Air would start with three Embraer aircraft, operating initial routes between Enugu, Abuja, and Lagos, before expanding to other Nigerian cities including Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin, and Kano.

“In the next phase, we will fly beyond Nigeria, into other African countries, China, Europe, UK, US, and other global business hubs,” Mbah announced, calling the airline a strategic tool for economic transformation in Enugu and the South-East region.

He described the initiative as more than an infrastructural project, branding it an economic enabler and job creator, poised to position Enugu as a regional transportation and logistics hub. The governor emphasized that the project would support the state’s aviation strategy, stimulate tourism, and attract over three million visitors annually.

Mbah said the transportation sector would generate over 20,000 jobs across various services, including BRT systems, airport operations, ride-hailing, logistics, and support roles.

Enugu Air will operate under a technical partnership with XEJet Airlines for 24 months while working to obtain its own Air Operator Certificate (AOC). Mbah credited Fidelity Bank Plc for supporting the state’s aviation vision financially.

XEJet CEO Emmanuel Ayuba Iza described the launch as “a bold dream” powered by the people of Enugu. He revealed that Kelechi Ossai, a native pilot from Enugu, has been recruited, and that the cabin crew includes trained locals prepared to deliver world-class service.

Transport Commissioner Obi Ozor said the state aims to replicate Dubai’s success by creating a transportation system that will grow the state’s economy from $4 billion to $30 billion, powered by innovation and infrastructure.

Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo, present at the launch, praised Mbah as “one of Nigeria’s top-performing governors”, joking that even political opponents are worried about his rising profile. He, however, urged the government to keep Enugu Air free from politics and bureaucratic inefficiency.

“Do not let Enugu Air go the way of Nigerian Airways. Run it professionally, and ensure it delivers on schedule,” Keyamo advised.