Video: ‘No more free tickets for friends,’ Keyamo tells Enugu Air to operate professionally
Festus Keyamo
Abdullateef Fowewe
Enugu Air, a newly launched airline, announced its plans to start regional flights throughout Africa in the near future.
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The airline was inaugurated by Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, who emphasised its alignment with the Federal Government’s goals to promote the growth and sustainability of Nigerian airlines.
Keyamo noted that while securing an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) can typically take up to two years, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu chose to form a strategic partnership with XE Jet, a well-established airline.
This alliance significantly expedited the approval process from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), enabling Enugu Air to begin operations promptly.
Keyamo praised Governor Mbah’s proactive strategy in drawing private sector investment for the management of Enugu airport.
He stated, “Do not let Enugu go the way of the Nigerian Airways. I beg you, run it professionally. Do not let bureaucracy to kill Enugu Air. Be prompt in your departures and arrivals. If the governor is two minutes late, close the door of the aircraft and take off.
“Do not say three of my friends are coming, they are friends of Enugu, give them three free tickets. If you want it to survive, Enugu people, support the airline.
“He has made it available; there will be flights from Enugu now. Enugu will be a bigger international hub now.
“I just whispered to him that we are going to approve regional operations from here very soon. To African states, bring your letter tomorrow, we are going to approve regional operations from here.
“I will make this pledge: I will support Enugu Air. I will stand by Enugu Air. I will go around the world with you, looking for aircraft to lease for Enugu Air. Personally, I will give personal guarantees for you to get aircraft to run Enugu Air.”
