The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has commended the administration of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah over the launch of Enugu Air, describing the move as a major step toward economic revival in the South-East.
In a statement on Tuesday, the National President of the council, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, praised the initiative as unprecedented in the region and hailed Governor Mbah’s leadership as innovative and forward-looking.
“This is the first state-owned airline in the South-East and the second in Nigeria, after Akwa Ibom. It’s a remarkable milestone, especially for a state that is not oil-producing,” Nnabuike said.
He noted that the unveiling of Enugu Air demonstrates prudent economic management by the Mbah administration, adding that the development has the potential to generate employment, boost tourism, and improve regional connectivity.
“We are excited that one of the airline’s captains is a young pilot from Enugu State. That’s not just symbolic it sends a clear message about youth inclusion and empowerment,” he said.
Okwu also encouraged citizens of Enugu State to rally around the administration, regardless of political affiliations. “What Governor Mbah is doing is governance in action. It’s time for every well-meaning citizen to support his government,” he added.
The youth leader further expressed optimism that Enugu Air would soon receive its Air Operator Certificate (AOC), which would allow it to operate independently.
“We’re pleased that just 24 hours after its launch, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has approved the commencement of domestic operations through its operational partner, XEJET. The full AOC should follow shortly,” he said.
The launch of Enugu Air has been widely seen as a bold move aimed at positioning the state as a key player in Nigeria’s aviation and economic landscape.