Ebonyi State Government has unveiled plans to enhance the capabilities of Chuba Okadigbo International Airport by acquiring commercial airplanes.
The announcement was made by Leo Ekene Oketa, the Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, via his official X (formerly Twitter) account. According to Oketa, Governor Francis Nwifuru and the Executive Council have given the green light to the Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Elechi Elechi Nnannia, to start negotiations with potential contractors for the supply of the aircraft.
This initiative aligns with the state’s broader vision of establishing its own airline, drawing inspiration from the success of Akwa Ibom State’s Ibom Air.
The statement from Oketa read: “In a move to maximize the growth and operations of the state-of-the-art Chuba Okadigbo International Airport, Governor @FrancisNwifuru, and the Executive Council have approved for Commissioner Elechi Elechi Nnannia to engage with contractors regarding the procurement of commercial airplanes for Ebonyi State.”
Additionally, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Obichukwu, Ebonyi State Commissioner for Aviation, announced the completion of the marking process for the newly asphalted runway at the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport. While minor clearances from relevant agencies and additional work remain, these are expected to be finalized soon.
Earlier this year, Dr. Obichukwu had detailed the state’s ambitious plans to launch a state-owned airline, with an initial goal to procure four aircraft. The state also seeks additional investment to secure three more planes. The ongoing investments in the airport’s infrastructure, including the rehabilitation of its 3.5-kilometer runway, are part of a broader strategy to enhance the airport’s operational efficiency and expand its capabilities for both passenger and cargo flights.
The completion of the runway’s rehabilitation and the forthcoming acquisition of aircraft represent significant steps in Ebonyi State’s efforts to develop a robust and efficient state-operated airline.
