The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the launch of Caliphate Airlines, the Sokoto State-owned commercial airline scheduled to begin operations later this year.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, gave the assurance on Thursday while receiving a delegation from the Sokoto State Government at his office in Abuja.

The commitment was disclosed in a statement issued by the minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood.

The delegation was led by the Chief of Staff to the Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Dikko, and included the Secretary to the State Government, Mohammad Sifawa; the Director of Operations at Caliphate Airlines, Oluwashina Agbelese; and the airline’s Account Manager, Abdulkarim Abioye.

During the meeting, the delegation conveyed Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s appreciation to the minister for his continued support and encouragement toward the establishment of Caliphate Airlines.

The officials also informed Keyamo that Caliphate Airlines, a limited liability company established to provide domestic passenger and cargo services, is scheduled to be inaugurated by President Bola Tinubu on August 18, 2026.

They further appealed for the minister’s continued support in facilitating the timely issuance of the Airline Operator Certificate, a critical regulatory approval required for the airline to commence commercial operations as scheduled.

The Director of Operations also disclosed that the airline will commence operations with a fleet of five Embraer regional jets.

In response, Keyamo commended the Sokoto State Government for investing in the aviation sector, describing the initiative as one that would boost economic growth, create jobs, and enhance regional connectivity.

The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting credible indigenous airlines, while emphasising that safety and strict compliance with regulatory standards would remain paramount.

“I will do everything within my capacity to support this initiative and ensure that any impediments capable of delaying the commencement of operations are addressed promptly, while, of course, maintaining the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance,” Keyamo said.

He added that agencies under the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development would continue to carry out all necessary regulatory processes professionally and ensure they are concluded without unnecessary delays.