Enugu State, in Nigeria’s southeast, is renowned for its coal heritage and growing economic ambition. Under the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah, the state has embarked on a bold transformation agenda, with a strong emphasis on infrastructure, digital governance, and regional connectivity. One major pillar of this agenda is aviation.

The much-anticipated Enugu Air is set to officially launch operations on Monday, July 7, 2025, from Akanu Ibiam International Airport. The event will be graced by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, along with other top dignitaries.

According to Enugu State’s Commissioner for Transportation, Obi Ozor, “Enugu Air is a critical part of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration’s vision for a modern, integrated transportation network that can drive economic growth and regional connectivity.”

The state-backed airline will commence service with two Embraer E170 jets—5N-ENR (msn 17000175) and 5N-ENU (msn 17000274)—acquired from Egypt’s CIAF Leasing. These aircraft were recently ferried to Nigeria after receiving new livery in Johannesburg. One is currently stationed in Enugu, the other in Abuja.

A third Embraer jet, from the E190 series, is expected to join the fleet soon.

Enugu Air’s initial route will form a triangle between Enugu, Abuja, and Lagos, with plans to later include Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin, and Kano. International destinations are also part of the airline’s long-term vision.

“With a strong foundation built on innovation and sustainability, Enugu Air is poised to transform regional air travel, boost state pride, and raise Enugu’s profile nationally and globally,” said Ozor.

Speaking on the new airline, the President of Nigerians in Diaspora Mentoring Corp (NIDMECORP), Mentoring Commandant Alistair, congratulated the Enugu State Government on the milestone and urged them to go further: “We challenge the government to see this initiative beyond a regional project, to evolve it into a true national and international carrier that leaves a lasting legacy for Nigeria. It is also an opportunity to raise the standards of customer service at our airports to global levels.”

The launch of Enugu Air follows the footsteps of Akwa Ibom State, which in 2019 became Nigeria’s first state to own and operate an airline—Ibom Air. Both airlines highlight an emerging trend of subnational investments in aviation aimed at economic development and enhanced connectivity.

Industry analysts believe the initiative could reshape the regional aviation landscape, stimulate tourism, create jobs, and elevate Enugu as a logistics and business hub in Nigeria and West Africa.