The Enugu State Government has identified the launch of Enugu Air and the concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport as major pillars of its plan to grow the state’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion by 2031.
Speaking during a media tour of the airport, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, said the initiatives are designed to boost tourism, attract investments, strengthen agricultural exports, and position Enugu as the economic hub of the South-East.
According to Onyia, the state expects increased visitor traffic through Enugu Air and plans to leverage the airport’s cargo facilities to support agricultural and commercial activities.
He added that the government’s broader strategy includes the development of tourism destinations, improved infrastructure, and a private sector-driven aviation model to ensure efficiency and sustainability.
The SSG also disclosed that the next phase of the airport concession project is scheduled to commence in October, with contractors expected to move to the site as implementation progresses.
Onyia commended President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government for supporting the airport concession process, describing the project as a significant step toward unlocking economic growth and investment opportunities in the South-East region.
