Keyamo Sets Up Technical Committee for Edo State Indigenous Airline

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has constituted a technical committee to fast-track the launch of an indigenous airline for Edo State. The move followed a courtesy visit by the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, to advance discussions on the immediate activation of a state-backed airline to operate from the Benin Airport.

Governor Okpebholo, who was accompanied by key members of his cabinet, emphasized the urgency of establishing a homegrown airline, describing aviation as a critical catalyst for Edo State’s economic revival. According to him, a functional airline would boost investment inflow, enhance connectivity, and create employment opportunities for residents.

In a statement issued by the Media Aide to the Aviation Minister, Tunde Moshood, the governor disclosed that the Edo State Government is already exploring multiple partnership options. These include engagements with South African investors who have reportedly pledged to provide aircraft for the take-off of operations.

“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,” Okpebholo said.

Welcoming the initiative, Keyamo described the plan as timely and strategic. He revealed that the Ministry has also been engaging potential investors who have shown increasing interest in Benin Airport and its commercial viability. The minister recalled the historical significance of the airport, noting that it once served as a major aviation hub during the era of the defunct Okada Air.

“Benin Airport used to be a strong aviation hub. There is no reason it cannot reclaim that status,” Keyamo stated.

To accelerate the process, the minister requested the nomination of a point person from the Edo State Government to work closely with the Director of Air Transport Management at the ministry. He added that the technical committee would submit weekly reports, expressing optimism that with effective collaboration, Benin Airport could become fully operational between the first and second quarters of the year.