Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on Thursday met with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), in Abuja to advance discussions on the proposed Edo Air initiative, a flagship project aimed at strengthening the state’s aviation sector.
Naijaonpoint reports that the high-level meeting focused on boosting air connectivity, stimulating economic activities and positioning Edo State as a regional hub for business, logistics and tourism.
Speaking during the engagement, Governor Okpebholo described the meeting as part of his administration’s broader strategy to drive economic growth and attract investment to the state.
He said, “Today, I met with the Honourable Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, SAN, where we held fruitful discussions on aviation development in Nigeria, with a strong focus on advancing Edo State’s aviation sector.”
The governor added that such engagements were crucial to unlocking new opportunities and improving connectivity across Edo State.
Okpebholo said his administration was deliberately working to position Edo State as a standout destination for development and investment, noting that the proposed airline would have far-reaching economic benefits.
“My administration remains fully committed to doing everything necessary to position Edo as a standout destination for development and investment. The establishment of Edo Air will significantly boost economic activities, enhance tourism, and make transportation easier and more reliable for our people and investors alike,” he said.
In his response, the Aviation Minister, Keyamo, welcomed the governor’s vision and recalled Benin City’s historic role in Nigeria’s aviation sector, particularly during the era of the defunct Okada Air.
He expressed delight that the Edo State Government was taking deliberate steps to revive the aviation legacy of the state, noting that the initiative aligned with the Federal Government’s goal of strengthening regional connectivity and driving economic growth through aviation.
FG Pledges Support For Edo Air
Keyamo assured the governor of the Ministry’s full support for the Edo Air project, stating that a functional state-backed airline would improve passenger movement, boost trade, attract investors and create jobs, especially for youths.
In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Patrick Akhere Ebojele, Governor Okpebholo expressed appreciation for the minister’s openness and support, describing the Federal Government’s backing as critical to the success of the project.
“We are encouraged by the Federal Government’s willingness to partner with Edo State on this important project. Together, we will build an aviation system that supports growth, tourism, and regional development,” the governor said.
The meeting further reaffirmed the collaboration between the Edo State Government and the Federal Government in advancing infrastructure development, economic transformation and national connectivity.