Residents of Enugu State have lauded Governor Peter Mbah for the official unveiling of Enugu Air, describing it as a historic milestone for the state and the entire Southeast region.
The unveiling ceremony, which held on Monday at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, drew widespread praise from local leaders, business stakeholders, and ordinary citizens, who hailed the initiative as a game-changer for regional transportation and economic development.
Reacting to the development, Chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, Dr. Eric Odo, said the launch of Enugu Air represents renewed hope and a major opportunity for the state.
“The airline will help streamline travel, strengthen commerce, and offer businesses the connectivity they long deserved,” Odo said.
“I must commend our visionary and pragmatic governor for this audacious and bold achievement. As a public servant, I am very proud to be alive and to witness this wonderful milestone,” he added.
Dr. Odo further called on residents to rally behind the initiative, stating: “Supporting our own as we elevate our state — together, we’re not just building infrastructures; we’re building a future reaching above and beyond our horizons.”
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers’ Council, Igwe Ikechukwu Asadu, noted that the new airline would connect the state to the global market and attract much-needed investments.
He proudly stated that Enugu has become the first in the Southeast and the second in Nigeria to launch a state-owned airline, giving the state a significant edge in the aviation industry.
In his remarks, Mr. Chibuike Onyekachi, Managing Director of PowellHomes and Shelters, described the development as “a bold and forward-thinking move in the transport sector.”
According to him, the deployment of the Embraer E170 and E190 aircraft series in Enugu’s aviation space marks the dawn of a new era in regional air connectivity.
“As a developer, I can foresee the new wave of infrastructure demand and opportunities this initiative will attract,” he said.
Meanwhile, a trader at the popular Ogbete Main Market, Paschal Nweke, appealed to the state government to ensure that the airline remains affordable for the average Enugu traveler.
He expressed hope that Enugu Air would break the monopoly of existing carriers, reduce exploitation, and provide job opportunities for the state’s unemployed youth.
The successful launch of Enugu Air marks yet another bold step in Governor Mbah’s administration’s efforts to reposition Enugu as a hub for investment, infrastructure, and innovation.
