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Enugu State’s aviation ambitions received a major boost on Tuesday, as Enugu Air formally received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), clearing the airline to begin commercial flight operations.
The milestone, which industry observers describe as one of the fastest certification processes in Nigeria’s aviation history, is a critical step toward realising Governor Peter Mbah’s vision of transforming Enugu into a major aviation and logistics hub serving West and Central Africa.
Presenting the certificate at the NCAA headquarters in Abuja, Director-General Chris Najomo described the development as a historic achievement for the Nigerian aviation industry.
According to him, the state-owned airline completed the rigorous regulatory certification process in just five months and three weeks, far shorter than the typical 15 to 24 months required for most airlines to secure the same approval.
Najomo also noted that Enugu Air distinguished itself by launching with a fully established fleet of six aircraft, a rare accomplishment for a newly certified carrier in the country.
He explained that the approval followed comprehensive technical and operational evaluations conducted by several departments within the NCAA, confirming that the airline met all safety, operational, and regulatory requirements.
The aviation regulator commended the vision behind the project and the discipline shown during the certification process. He also praised Governor Mbah’s leadership, saying the speed and efficiency with which the airline was delivered demonstrated a clear commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The NCAA chief further urged the airline’s management to maintain strict adherence to safety standards and regulatory compliance as it prepares to commence operations.
In her remarks, the Accountable Manager and Chief Executive Officer of Enugu Air, Tolu Ita, expressed gratitude to the Enugu State government for supporting the airline’s establishment and enabling the record-breaking certification.
She also acknowledged the professionalism of the NCAA throughout the process.
The airline, she said, remains committed to building a dependable and competitive carrier capable of delivering safe and efficient services.
Ita emphasised that Enugu Air would prioritise high operational standards and customer service as it positions itself to compete in both domestic and regional aviation markets.
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Speaking at the ceremony, Enugu State Commissioner for Transportation Obi Ozor described the airline as a central pillar of the state government’s broader transportation and logistics transformation strategy.
According to him, the airline is expected to stimulate economic growth by connecting Enugu to key commercial destinations while boosting tourism, trade, and investment opportunities across the South-East and beyond.
Ozor revealed that the airline plans to expand its fleet to 20 aircraft and begin regional operations before the end of 2026, strengthening Enugu’s connectivity with major cities across Africa.
He also commended the airline’s operating partner, XEJet Limited, for providing technical guidance and support throughout the complex certification process.
The Group Chief Executive Officer of XEJet Limited, Emmanuel Iza, congratulated the airline on the milestone, describing it as a demonstration of the value of collaboration between government and private aviation operators.
“This milestone demonstrates what can be achieved through strong partnerships between government and the commercial aviation sector in advancing air transport development,” Iza stated.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Enugu Air Board, Ricky Agu, assured the NCAA that the Enugu State government would continue to provide the necessary support to ensure the airline maintains world-class operational standards.
He stressed that the airline’s leadership remains committed to building a sustainable aviation business capable of supporting the state’s long-term economic ambitions.
The AOC presentation ceremony was attended by senior aviation officials and members of the Enugu State delegation, including the Special Assistant to the Governor on Transport, Iphie Ugonabo, alongside members of the airline’s management team.
With regulatory approval now secured, industry analysts say Enugu Air’s entry into Nigeria’s aviation market could help strengthen regional connectivity and open new economic corridors across the South-East.
For the Enugu State government, the launch of the airline represents more than just a transportation project. It is part of a broader strategy aimed at positioning the state as a gateway for commerce, logistics, and investment within the West African aviation network.
