Edo State is set to make a major mark in Nigeria’s aviation sector as South African investors pledge aircraft and operational support for an Edo State indigenous airline operating from Benin Airport.
Governor Monday Okpebholo, during a strategic audience with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, emphasised that launching a homegrown airline is vital to unlocking Benin Airport’s economic potential, attracting investment, and creating jobs across the state.
Plans for Edo State Indigenous Airline
The Governor, accompanied by key cabinet members, said the State Government has engaged multiple investment options, with South African partners already committed to providing aircraft and technical expertise. Aviation, he added, is central to Edo State’s economic revival. An active airline would improve connectivity while positioning the state as a commercial and tourism gateway in southern Nigeria.
“If I have my way, I want this airline to kick off immediately even before the election. Edo State needs a strong aviation presence to open up our economy and reposition Benin as a major hub,” Governor Okpebholo stated, underlining the urgency of operationalising the indigenous airline initiative.
The Governor explained that the airline is designed to comply fully with national aviation regulations while delivering sustainable returns for investors. He highlighted that partnerships with South African investors would ensure access to modern aircraft, experienced aviation personnel, and technical expertise critical to the project’s success. The collaboration, he said, signals confidence in the commercial viability of Edo State’s aviation sector.
Minister Keyamo welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and visionary. He recalled Benin Airport’s historical significance, noting that it once served as a major hub for the old Midwest region during the operational peak of the defunct Okada Air. The Minister added that the renewed investor interest confirms the airport’s commercial potential.
“Benin Airport used to be a strong aviation hub during the glory days of Okada Air. There is no reason it cannot reclaim that status. The interest we are seeing today, particularly from South African investors, shows the market recognises Benin’s potential,” Keyamo said.
To fast-track the launch, the Minister announced the formation of a technical committee for the indigenous airline. He requested that the Governor nominate a point person to work directly with the Director of Air Transport Management at the Ministry. The committee will oversee operational planning, regulatory compliance, and coordination between Edo State, investors, and the Federal Government.
“This committee will report to me and the Governor on a weekly basis. With proper collaboration, Benin Airport should be fully operational between the first and second quarters of this year,” the Minister assured, providing a clear timeline for execution.
The meeting reinforced the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening regional air connectivity and supporting state-led aviation projects. It aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to encourage private investment in infrastructure while fostering economic growth and employment.
The participation of South African investors in the Edo State indigenous airline initiative signals confidence to other potential backers, highlighting the untapped commercial potential of Nigeria’s secondary airports. By providing aircraft and expertise, investors are bridging the gap between government vision and operational reality, ensuring the airline can launch efficiently and safely.
Governor Okpebholo emphasised that the indigenous airline initiative goes beyond aviation. The airline is expected to stimulate local employment, create opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses in airport logistics and services, and enhance trade and tourism inflows.
“This is more than an airline; it is a strategy to open up Edo State’s economy. Aviation is the fastest way to attract investors, grow commerce, and generate jobs,” the Governor said.
The technical committee will also consider long-term sustainability, including route planning, pricing models, and partnerships with airlines and service providers. Its work is designed to reassure investors, aviation unions, and the public that the airline will operate profitably while complying with all regulations.
The launch of the Edo State indigenous airline, backed by South African investors, underscores the growing trend of state-led aviation projects leveraging private capital to modernise infrastructure. If successful, the initiative could serve as a blueprint for other states seeking to activate regional airports and stimulate economic growth through aviation.
As Edo State prepares to take flight, stakeholders will watch closely, particularly the technical committee’s handling of operational and regulatory issues. The combination of investor support, government coordination, and historical airport infrastructure sets the stage for Benin Airport to regain prominence in Nigeria’s domestic aviation network.
