Governor Mbah Unveils Enugu Air, Enugu State’s Pioneering State-Owned Airline

 Governor Peter Mbah officially launched Enugu Air, the first state-owned airline in Enugu State, on July 7, 2025, at a ceremonial event at Akanu Ibiam International Airport attended by 3,500 dignitaries. 

The airline debuted with two leased Boeing 737-800 aircraft, secured at a $22 million annual cost, and aims to connect Enugu to major domestic hubs like Lagos and Abuja, as well as international destinations including London and Houston, with an initial target of 600,000 passengers annually. Mbah positioned the venture as a cornerstone of his $2 billion economic diversification plan, leveraging Enugu’s strategic location and 4.5 million population.

Funded through a N60 billion public-private partnership with local investors like Globus Bank, the airline includes a maintenance hangar and plans to create 250 direct jobs, with ambitions to acquire three additional aircraft by 2028.

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority granted the Air Operator Certificate in June 2025, but critics, representing 45% of opposition groups, question financial viability given the state’s N1.7 trillion debt. The inaugural flight to Lagos on July 8 carries 180 passengers at N55,000 per ticket, with a loyalty program launching in September. Residents, 65% of whom support the initiative, await improved road access to complement the airline.