Nigeria’s aviation sector recorded another milestone on Monday as the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK), officially inaugurated the maiden flight of Enugu Air, a new state-owned airline launched by the Enugu State Government under the leadership of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.

The historic flag-off ceremony, held at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, was marked by celebration and optimism as dignitaries and aviation stakeholders gathered to witness what many described as a turning point for regional air travel and sub-national investment in critical infrastructure.

Keyamo, who led a federal delegation comprising top aviation officials — including the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo; the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku; and the Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Farouk Umar — praised the Enugu State Government for its bold initiative.

“This is not just the launch of an airline,” the minister said in his keynote speech, “it is the birth of a bold vision. Governor Mbah has shown exemplary leadership by demonstrating how state governments can play a catalytic role in deepening aviation, promoting economic growth, and enhancing national integration.”

He described Enugu Air as a “trailblazing initiative” and a symbol of regional empowerment made possible through visionary governance and strategic public-private partnerships.

Governor Peter Mbah, in his welcome remarks, thanked the Federal Government and its aviation agencies for the support that made the launch possible. He described Enugu Air as a strategic enabler of the state’s broader development agenda.

“This is not just about flying planes,” Mbah said. “It is about opening Enugu to the world and bringing the world to Enugu. With Enugu Air, we are creating new pathways for investment, tourism, trade, and interconnectivity across the South East and beyond.”

The airline will be operated by Xejet, a rising force in Nigeria’s airline industry led by Emmanuel Iza. Known for its premium service and commitment to safety, Xejet is expected to bring its expertise to ensure seamless operations for Enugu Air.

Initial commercial operations will focus on major domestic routes, with plans underway for regional and international expansion as demand increases.

According to Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the Federal Ministry remains committed to supporting public-private collaborations that deepen Nigeria’s aviation capacity and ensure compliance with global safety and operational standards.

The event concluded with a symbolic water salute for the aircraft, a tour of the Enugu Air facility, and a joint reaffirmation of support by both federal and state stakeholders for the continued growth of the aviation sector in Nigeria.