Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has announced plans to establish a state-owned commercial airline as part of efforts to create employment opportunities for trained pilots from the state and strengthen Kano’s presence in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
The governor made the announcement during the 40th Executive Council Meeting at the Government House in Kano, where he received several awards, including one from the Kano State Pilot Association in recognition of his administration’s support for the training of indigenous pilots.
According to a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Dawakin-Tofa, the proposed Kano Airline is expected to commence operations within the next year.
“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,” Yusuf said.
The governor explained that the initiative is designed to provide employment opportunities for Kano indigenes who have completed professional pilot training while boosting the state’s contribution to Nigeria’s aviation sector.
He also commended the performance of Kano-sponsored pilots who underwent aviation training in Jordan under a programme initiated by a previous administration, assuring that his government would continue investing in human capital development and supporting qualified pilots.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Kano State Pilot Association, Naziru Ibrahim, thanked the governor for facilitating the revalidation of members’ flying licences.
He appealed for additional government support to enable members obtain their final certifications, which would qualify them to fly commercial aircraft within Nigeria and internationally.
The association also presented an award to Governor Yusuf in recognition of his administration’s commitment to advancing the careers of young pilots and supporting the growth of the aviation sector in Kano State.
