The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has initiated concrete steps towards the establishment of an indigenous airline for Edo State following a strategic meeting with the Governor of the state, Senator Monday Okpebholo, in Abuja.
Governor Okpebholo, who paid a courtesy visit to the Minister on Thursday, emphasised the urgency of activating a homegrown airline that would operate from the Benin Airport, describing aviation as a critical catalyst for Edo State’s economic revitalisation, increased investment inflows and sustainable job creation.
The Governor, accompanied by key members of his cabinet, disclosed that the Edo State Government was already exploring various partnership models to ensure a swift take-off of the airline.
He revealed that discussions were ongoing with prospective foreign partners, including South African investors, who have expressed readiness to provide aircraft for the commencement of operations.
Stressing his determination to see the project realised without delay, Okpebholo noted that a strong aviation presence was essential to unlocking Edo State’s economic potential and repositioning Benin as a major commercial and transportation hub.
He said the proposed airline would play a transformative role in connecting the state to key domestic and regional destinations, thereby stimulating trade, tourism and investor confidence.
In his response, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development welcomed the initiative, describing it as both timely and visionary.
Keyamo revealed that the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development had also been in discussions with potential investors who have shown growing interest in the commercial prospects of Benin Airport.
The Minister recalled the historical significance of Benin Airport in Nigeria’s aviation landscape, noting that it once served as a major aviation hub for the old Midwest region during the peak years of the defunct Okada Air.
He expressed confidence that the airport could once again reclaim its former status, given the renewed interest from investors and the commitment demonstrated by the Edo State Government.
To fast-track the realisation of the project, Keyamo announced the establishment of a technical committee that would drive the planning and implementation process.
He requested the Governor to nominate a focal person from the state who would work closely with the Director of Air Transport Management at the Ministry to ensure seamless coordination, regulatory compliance and efficient operational planning.
According to the Minister, the committee will provide weekly progress reports to both the Federal Ministry and the Edo State Government, a move aimed at maintaining momentum and ensuring accountability.
He expressed optimism that, with effective collaboration, Benin Airport could achieve full operational readiness within the first half of the year.
The meeting highlights the Federal Government’s broader commitment to enhancing regional air connectivity, strengthening indigenous airline operations and supporting state-driven aviation initiatives.
It also aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic growth, infrastructure development and private sector participation across critical sectors of the economy.
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