North-East Governors Invest ₦10.8bn in Regional Airline

The North-East Governors’ Forum (NEGF) has committed ₦10.8 billion in counterpart funding to establish a regional airline called the North East Air Shuttle, with the aim of commencing flight operations in October. Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, who chairs the forum, announced this during the 10th meeting of the NEGF in Maiduguri.

The six states in the region contributed the total amount through counterpart contributions, and Zulum stated that the remaining funds would be submitted by the end of October to facilitate the airline's launch. The initiative is intended to enhance transportation links within the North-East, reduce reliance on road travel, and promote business and economic activities.

While the governors have not yet disclosed specific operational details such as the airline's fleet, routes, and ticket prices, they view the airline as a means to improve connectivity in a region facing significant transportation challenges due to its geographical spread and past insurgency issues.