Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has announced plans to establish a state-owned commercial airline, saying the project is expected to begin operations within the next year.
The governor disclosed this during the 40th Executive Council Meeting at the Government House in Kano, where he received several awards, including a recognition from the Kano State Pilot Association for supporting members of the association to complete their aviation training.
The governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Dawakin-Tofa, said the proposed airline is aimed at creating employment opportunities for indigenes who have completed professional pilot training.
Yusuf said the state government was committed to providing the necessary support to ensure the successful take-off of the airline.
“By the grace of God, the proposed Kano Airline will commence operations within the next one year. We are committed to providing all the necessary support to actualise the project and ensure its successful operation,” he said.
The governor also commended the performance of Kano-sponsored pilots who underwent aviation training in Jordan under a programme initiated by a previous administration.
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He said the state would continue to invest in the development of its young pilots and create opportunities for them to contribute to the growth of the aviation sector.
Earlier, Chairman of the Kano State Pilot Association, Naziru Ibrahim, praised the governor for facilitating the revalidation of members’ flying licences.
He appealed to the state government to provide additional support to enable the pilots obtain their final certifications, which would qualify them to operate commercial flights within Nigeria and internationally.