Aviation Union Applauds Festus Keyamo for Driving Domestic Airline Growth as Enugu Air Prepares for Take-Off
The emergence of Enugu Air as a new player in Nigeria’s domestic aviation landscape has been hailed as a major breakthrough, particularly by aviation union leaders who believe it signals a new dawn for air travel in the country.
Comrade John Ogbe, 3rd Deputy President of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), has praised the Federal Government’s unwavering support for indigenous airline growth, singling out the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, and the Acting Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, for their proactive efforts in facilitating the launch of Enugu Air.
According to Ogbe, the entry of Enugu Air into Nigeria’s commercial aviation market is a timely intervention that will not only deepen competition among domestic carriers but also drive down airfares and improve service quality.
“For too long, air travel in Nigeria has been a luxury only few could afford. With the devastating effects of COVID-19 still lingering, many airlines shut down, creating a supply vacuum,” he said. “Enugu Air is bridging that gap.”
The union leader emphasised that the new airline’s arrival will open up new economic corridors, especially in the Eastern region, by encouraging tourism, boosting intra-national commerce, and supporting ancillary aviation services such as catering, ground handling, and logistics.
“This is a major win for both the local economy and for job creation. Beyond Enugu State, Nigerians across the board stand to benefit,” Ogbe added.
He further urged other state governments to take a cue from the Enugu State administration by investing in aviation infrastructure and supporting initiatives that enhance air connectivity.
“This is the kind of visionary partnership between state governments and the Federal Ministry of Aviation that we need to see replicated nationwide,” he said.
Ogbe also lauded Minister Keyamo for turning his bold vision for the aviation sector into tangible results, noting that the enabling environment created by his administration has attracted innovation and increased confidence among investors in domestic aviation.
“What we are witnessing now is not accidental. It is a product of deliberate policies and leadership commitment to reforming the sector,” he stated.
With Enugu Air’s imminent commencement of operations, industry watchers say Nigeria’s domestic aviation sector is set for a wave of transformation that could reshape travel habits, enhance national integration, and unlock vast economic potential.
As the aircraft prepares for its maiden voyage, optimism is soaring across the country. Many view the development not only as a step forward for Enugu State, but as a beacon of hope for a sector long in need of revitalisation.
With effective leadership and strategic investment, stakeholders believe Nigeria’s skies are on the cusp of a new golden era.
