The Enugu State government has unveiled plans to acquire four new aircraft for its proposed state-owned airline, Enugu Air, in 2025.
This project is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the state’s transportation sector, with a total of N41.1 billion allocated for transportation projects in the state’s 2025 proposed budget.
The announcement was made during the presentation of the N971 billion “Exponential Growth and Inclusive Prosperity” budget by Governor Peter Mbah to the Enugu State House of Assembly on Tuesday.
The budget seeks approval for various developmental initiatives, with a key focus on boosting infrastructure and economic growth in the state.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Governor Mbah highlighted the state’s commitment to enhancing its aviation sector. “N41.1 billion will be deployed to transform our transportation sector, including the expansion of Enugu Air with four new aircraft, the concessioning of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, and the development of an international cargo terminal,” he stated. These efforts are aimed at positioning Enugu as a leading hub for air transport in Nigeria.
The transportation budget is part of the broader 2025 budget, which places a strong emphasis on capital expenditure. Of the total N971 billion, N837.9 billion (86%) is earmarked for capital projects, while recurrent expenditure accounts for N133.1 billion (14%). This allocation represents an 86.4% increase from the previous year, reflecting the state’s commitment to rapid development.
Governor Mbah explained that the 2025 budget was designed as a bold, strategic initiative to drive growth and prosperity in the state, to position Enugu among the top three states in Nigeria by Gross Domestic Product.
Education, healthcare, and infrastructure development are central to the state’s 2025 vision. N320.6 billion (33.2% of the total budget) has been allocated to education, reflecting its importance in building a knowledge-driven economy and reducing poverty.
The healthcare sector will receive N45.8 billion to improve medical services, while N213.1 billion is designated for infrastructure projects, including road rehabilitation and public works.
In addition, agriculture has been given a significant boost with an allocation of N82.3 billion to support food production and agro-industrialization, addressing food security and economic diversification in the state.
Governor Mbah emphasized that these projects are aimed at ensuring sustainable growth and improving the quality of life for all residents of Enugu State.
