Akwa Ibom Governor Eno Expands Aviation Training Program

On September 3, during a ceremony in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno announced significant developments in the state's aviation sector, including the acquisition of a fifth aircraft, an Airbus A220-300, for the state-owned airline, Ibom Air. This acquisition is part of a broader strategy to not only expand the airline's fleet but also to enhance indigenous manpower in the aviation industry.

Currently, 14 of Ibom Air's 30 pilots are Akwa Ibom indigenes, and an additional 20 indigenes are undergoing cadet pilot training—10 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and 10 in Zaria, Kaduna State. Eno stated that these initiatives reflect his administration's commitment to equipping young people with specialized skills for sustainable career opportunities.

The arrival of the new aircraft was celebrated with a water-cannon salute and coincided with the 39th anniversary of Akwa Ibom State, during which the governor received commendations from Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other dignitaries for his investments in aviation and other sectors.