The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo in a high-level courtesy visit aimed at revitalizing Edo State’s aviation sector, met with the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, on Thursday, January 22, 2026, to accelerate plans for the establishment of an indigenous airline operating from Benin Airport.
The meeting, described in an official press release from the Minister’s office, focused on the “immediate activation” of a homegrown airline as a key driver for economic revival, increased investment inflows, and job creation in the state.
Governor Okpebholo, accompanied by key cabinet members, emphasized the urgency of the project and highlighted ongoing partnership explorations, including commitments from South African investors to supply aircraft for initial operations.
“If I have my way, I want this airline to kick off immediately like tomorrow, even before the election. Edo State needs a strong aviation presence to open up our economy and reposition Benin as a major hub,” Governor Okpebholo stated during the discussions.
Truth Live News learnt that, responding to the governor’s enthusiasm, Minister Keyamo welcomed the initiative as “timely and visionary.” He noted growing investor interest in Benin Airport’s commercial potential and recalled its historical significance as a major hub during the era of the defunct Okada Air.
“Benin Airport used to be a strong aviation hub during the glory days of Okada Air. There is no reason it cannot reclaim that status. The interest we are seeing today confirms that Benin is ready again,” the Minister said.
To expedite the project, Keyamo announced the formation of a technical committee tasked with coordinating regulatory compliance, operational planning, and overall implementation. He requested that the Edo State Government nominate a designated point person to collaborate directly with the Director of Air Transport Management at the Ministry.
“This committee will report to me and you on a weekly basis for effective coordination. With proper collaboration, Benin Airport should be fully operational between the first and second quarters of this year,” Keyamo assured the governor.
The engagement aligns with the Federal Government’s broader objectives under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, including enhanced regional air connectivity, promotion of indigenous airline operations, and support for state-driven aviation initiatives.
The development has already sparked public discourse, with some political observers questioning the priority amid other infrastructure needs, though proponents view it as a bold step toward positioning Benin City as a renewed aviation and economic centre in the South-South region.
