The Ebonyi state government on Wednesday, December 31, procured four new aircraft as part of plans to launch its proposed state-owned airline, Ebonyi Air, in Ebonyi state.
Governor Francis Nwifuru disclosed this on Wednesday while delivering his 2026 new year address to the people of the state.
Nwifuru said the aircraft were acquired under the Ebonyi Air initiative and are expected to arrive in January 2026.
The governor explained that the decision to procure the aircraft was a strategic economic move aimed at opening up the state to investment, tourism, and increased business opportunities, rather than a quest for prestige.
“Reliable air transport makes it easier for investors to do business, for professionals to move in and out of the state, and for our people to connect with other parts of the country and beyond,” Nwifuru said.
Nwifuru stressed that the proposed Ebonyi Air will reduce travel time and costs, encourage private sector participation, and position the state as a competitive destination for economic activities.
He added that the move will support job creation and strengthen the state government’s engagement with the wider national economy.
The governor noted that the aircraft procurement aligns with his administration’s people’s charter of needs agenda, which 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 prudently to ensure value for money, maintaining that improved connectivity was critical to attracting investors and accelerating development.
Nwifuru expressed optimism that the arrival of the four aircraft would mark a new phase in the state’s economic expansion and reinforce its commitment to sustainable growth and development in 2026 and beyond.
He expressed gratitude to residents of Ebonyi state for their resilience amid economic challenges in 2025, noting that the relative peace and unity enjoyed by the state remained one of its strongest assets.
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