The Federal Government and the Edo State Government have agreed on a mid-year timeline to commence full commercial operations at the Benin Airport, alongside plans to elish an indigenous airline for the state.
The agreement was reached on Wednesday during a meeting between the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, who led a delegation of senior state officials to the minister’s office in Abuja. The development was disclosed in a statement signed by the minister’s media aide, Tunde Moshood, and released to journalists on Friday.
Governor Okpebholo described the proposed airline as a central component of his administration’s economic revival agenda, noting that a strong aviation sector is vital for attracting investment, boosting tourism, and creating employment opportunities in Edo State.
He revealed that the state government has begun exploring partnership options and is already in discussions with South African investors who have expressed readiness to provide aircraft for the airline’s initial operations.
“If I have my way, I want this airline to take off immediately, even as early as tomorrow. Edo State needs a strong aviation presence to open up our economy and reposition Benin as a major commercial hub,” the governor said.
Responding, Minister Keyamo welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and forward-looking. He noted that the Ministry of Aviation has also been engaging with prospective investors who have shown renewed interest in the commercial viability of the Benin Airport.
Keyamo recalled the airport’s historical importance in Nigeria’s aviation industry, particularly during the era of the defunct Okada Air, when Benin served as a major hub for the old Midwest region.
“Benin Airport was once a strong aviation hub during the glory days of Okada Air. There is no reason it cannot reclaim that status,” the minister stated.
To fast-track implementation, Keyamo announced the creation of a technical committee to coordinate efforts between the Federal Government and the Edo State Government. He requested the nomination of a liaison officer from the state to work closely with the Director of Air Transport Management at the ministry to ensure regulatory compliance and operational readiness.
According to him, the committee will submit weekly progress reports, adding that with effective collaboration, Benin Airport could become fully operational between the first and second quarters of the year.
The minister said the engagement underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening regional air connectivity, promoting indigenous airlines, and supporting state-led aviation initiatives in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Im not convinced about this indigenous airline plan. Will it really take off, or is it just a pipe dream?
Wow, finally some progress at Benin Airport! But do you think starting an indigenous airline is a good idea right now? Lets discuss!
I dont trust Nigerian airlines to be reliable. Lets see if this indigenous airline can ce my mind.
Im not convinced about this indigenous airline plan. Are we ready for the competition in the aviation industry? Lets discuss!
Im not convinced about this plan for a new airline. Will it really benefit the people of Edo state? Lets discuss.