Edo State has taken a formal step toward establishing its own state-owned airline after Governor Monday Okpebholo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate the project. The agreement follows a high-level fact-finding mission to China aimed at securing technical and operational expertise for the venture.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., confirmed the development, noting that the decision is a direct result of a mission undertaken by a seven-man delegation to China on September 14, 2026. The delegation, which was authorised by the Governor, sought to engage with potential partners capable of providing the necessary technical support and operational frameworks for the proposed carrier.
The signing of the MoU by Governor Okpebholo indicates the state’s intention to move from the conceptual phase into formal partnerships with international aviation stakeholders.
Aviation regulatory and operational requirements
The proposed airline is intended to boost connectivity within Edo State and provide additional flight options within the Nigerian aviation market. By engaging partners in China, the Edo State Government is looking to access established aviation technologies, aircraft procurement channels, and specialised maintenance support.
According to Ikhilor, the primary objective of the September delegation was to evaluate the capacity of various international entities to manage the technical complexities of running a commercial airline. This includes securing reliable aircraft and establishing training programmes for local personnel to ensure long-term operational sustainability.
The establishment of a new airline in Nigeria requires strict adherence to the regulations set by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). The state government will need to satisfy stringent safety, security, and airworthiness requirements before the carrier can commence commercial operations. The involvement of international partners is expected to assist the state in meeting these international and domestic standards.
While the specific Chinese companies involved in the MoU have not been disclosed, the administration has stated that the partnerships will focus on ensuring the airline remains commercially viable. This comes at a time when the Nigerian aviation sector faces significant economic hurdles, including high jet fuel costs and foreign exchange volatility, which have pressured many existing private operators.
The next phase of the project will involve detailed technical assessments and the finalisation of the operational framework. The state government is expected to begin the process of aircraft procurement and the recruitment of specialised aviation staff as the project moves toward its implementation stage.
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