Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has announced plans to commence direct cargo flight operations between Guangzhou, China, and Enugu before the end of 2026, a move aimed at boosting trade and improving logistics across the South-East region.
Speaking during the unveiling of two Boeing 737-800 aircraft acquired by United Nigeria Airlines, Keyamo disclosed that negotiations are already underway to establish the cargo route, which will enable traders to transport goods directly from China to Enugu for distribution across major commercial centres such as Onitsha and Aba.
The minister also revealed that the Enugu International Airport is being transformed into a dedicated cargo hub under a new operational model involving private-sector participation, following approval by President Bola Tinubu.
According to him, the initiative is designed to unlock the airport’s economic potential and position Enugu as a major gateway for commerce and investment in the South-East.
Keyamo further highlighted ongoing construction at the Abia State International Airport in Umuahia, describing the project as one of the Federal Government’s priority aviation infrastructure developments. He commended Governor Alex Otti for providing counterpart funding to accelerate the project’s completion.
The minister added that the Federal Government is implementing measures to strengthen indigenous airlines, including plans to establish a Nigerian Aircraft Leasing Company to ease aircraft acquisition and support the expansion of local carriers into international routes.
He noted that these initiatives are expected to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and open new opportunities for trade and investment across the South-East and Nigeria as a whole.
