The government of Ebonyi State in south-east Nigeria has announced that it has procured three new aircraft as part of plans to launch a state-owned airline, a major step in its bid to improve connectivity and stimulate economic growth. Governor Francis Nwifuru revealed the development in his New Year address to residents, describing the acquisition as a strategic initiative rather than a move for prestige.
Speaking to the people of Ebonyi, Mr Nwifuru said the aircraft will soon arrive in the state and form the backbone of “Ebonyi Air”, a proposed commercial airline that officials hope will open up the region to greater investment, tourism and business opportunities. He explained that reliable air transport would make it easier for investors to operate in the state, enable professionals to travel more conveniently, and help residents connect with other parts of Nigeria and beyond.
The governor stressed that the planned airline is expected to reduce travel time and costs, encourage participation by private sector partners and position Ebonyi as a competitive destination for economic activities. He said improved air services would also support job creation and strengthen the state’s engagement with the wider national economy.
Mr Nwifuru said the acquisition of the aircraft aligns with his administration’s “People’s Charter of Needs Agenda”, a policy framework that prioritises infrastructure development, economic empowerment and inclusive growth across all local government areas of the state. He assured residents that the project would be managed carefully to ensure value for money, and that enhanced connectivity was crucial for attracting investors and accelerating development.
Officials expressed optimism that the arrival of the aircraft will mark a new chapter in Ebonyi’s economic development, reinforcing the government’s commitment to sustainable growth in 2026 and beyond. Mr Nwifuru also thanked the people of Ebonyi State for their resilience through challenging economic conditions in 2025, noting that peace and unity within the state were among its greatest strengths.
In addition to the airline plans, the governor outlined other achievements by his administration in the past year. These include reforms in the education sector to improve efficiency, expanded scholarship opportunities, the launch of model schools and stabilisation in tertiary institutions. The state has also revitalised primary healthcare centres, upgraded hospitals, recruited health workers and expanded a health insurance scheme to provide free maternal and child care. Roads have been built and rehabilitated across local government areas, rural connectivity has improved, and major bridges and infrastructure projects have been completed, especially around the capital, Abakaliki.
Mr Nwifuru also touched on the state’s budget plans, unveiling an N884.8 billion 2026 spending plan that prioritises capital projects, education, healthcare, agriculture, economic empowerment, security and social welfare. He told residents the budget would be implemented with transparency and fiscal discipline. Plans to establish a modern cement factory were also announced, aimed at harnessing the state’s abundant limestone deposits to create jobs, boost local revenue and reduce the cost of building materials.
He assured the public that local government elections scheduled for 2026 would be free and fair, with appointed officials required to resign before contesting. As part of a New Year gesture, the governor granted pardons to eight individuals, including five posthumous pardons, as an effort to promote reconciliation.
If launched successfully, Ebonyi Air will make the state one of a small number in Nigeria to operate its own airline, following Ibom Air, Cally Air and Enugu Air. State-run carriers are seen by their proponents as tools to improve regional connectivity and support local economies, though much will depend on regulatory approvals, effective management and sustainable demand for services.
