Akwa Ibom @39: Eno Receives Fifth Aircraft to Kick Off Celebrations

As part of the activities marking the 39th anniversary of Akwa Ibom State, the governor, pastor Umo Eno on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 received the fifth aircraft acquired by his administration for Ibom Air, saying the addition would strengthen the airline’s operations and position state’s aviation sector for further growth.

At the official reception and water-cannon ceremony for the newly acquired Airbus A220-300 in Uyo, the governor expressed optimism that the expansion of Ibom Air’s fleet would create greater opportunities for the state in the aviation industry.

He said the state’s investment in Ibom Air was also aimed at developing indigenous manpower and creating opportunities for Akwa Ibom indigenes in the aviation industry.

According to him, 14 of Ibom Air’s 30 pilots are indigenes of Akwa Ibom, while 10 other indigenes are undergoing cadet pilot training in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with another 10 receiving training at an aviation school in Zaria.

Gov Eno said the figures demonstrated the state’s growing participation in the aviation business, adding that his administration would continue to support initiatives capable of equipping young people with skills and opening up opportunities for them.

He, therefore paid glowing tributes to the previous governors of the State for their vision and contributions in the development of the State’s aviation industry and promised to continue to invest in its growth and expansion.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, for his support to the State and especially applauded him for approving an international status for the airport, which enabled the direct flight to to the airport from outside the country.

On his part, Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, congratulated Governor Eno, on the acquisition of a new Airbus A220-300 for Ibom Air, pledging his support for initiatives aimed at advancing the development of Akwa Ibom.

Akpabio also leveraged the occasion to canvass support for Eno’s re-election bid, declaring, “As the campaigns have started, I bring you a very valuable candidate from APC, Gov. Umo Eno. I will join hands with the governor to continue the progress of this state.”

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Board of Ibom Air, Captain Mfon Udom, commended the state government for its continued investment in the airline and expansion of its fleet.

In his goodwill message, Chief Assam Assam,SAN, applauded Gov Eno for what he described as visible development projects and his commitment to the welfare of the people.

The paramount ruler of Eket, Edidem Etim Charles Abia, lauded the governor for fostering unity across the state, which he said had translated into tangible progress, while Chief Asam Asam commended Gov Eno’s steadfastness and credibility in sustaining confidence in Akwa Ibom’s development agenda.

Meanwhile, the aircraft was flown into the state by Ibom Air Chief Pilot, Captain Rose Adebanwo, who said the Airbus A220-300 would bring advanced technology, greater efficiency and increased operational capability to the airline.

By Lovina Emole

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