THE RISE OF AKWA IBOM STATE’S AVIATION INDUSTRY

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THE RISE OF AKWA IBOM STATE’S AVIATION INDUSTRY

As Gov Umo Eno Flags Off Aviation Village

Emmanuel Nicholas

Akwa Ibom State, a vibrant State in southern Nigeria, is on the brink of becoming a significant aviation hub in sub-Saharan Africa.

This transformation can be traced back to the visionary leadership of Obong(ARC) Victor Attah, who first proposed the establishment of an international airport and a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in the state.

His foresight laid the groundwork for what has now evolved into a multifaceted aviation industry, significantly impacting the economic landscape of Akwa Ibom.

The Foundation: Obong Victor Attah’s Vision

Obong Victor Attah, who held the esteemed position of governor of Akwa Ibom State from the year 1999 until 2007, possessed a profound understanding of the significant role that aviation could play in fostering economic development.

With this insight, he embarked upon the ambitious project of establishing an international airport, a visionary undertaking that aimed not only to improve connectivity for the state but also to act as a powerful stimulus for both tourism and commercial activities.

This grand vision, while undeniably ambitious, laid a crucial foundation for subsequent administrations to build upon and further develop.

During his tenure, his administration took the initial steps necessary for the construction of the airport terminal building and the runway, laying the groundwork for what would become a vital infrastructure project.

Furthermore, they made a substantial financial commitment by contributing part of the down payment for a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, thereby reinforcing their dedication to enhancing the aviation sector and its contributions to the state’s economy.

Progress Under Senator Godswill Akpabio

Senator Godswill Akpabio took over the leadership and found the airport project at the earthworks stage. Akpabio showed his dedication to Attah’s vision by supervising the completion of essential infrastructure such as the runway, terminal building, and MRO building.

His administration represented a crucial turning point, as these changes started to establish the essential physical and operational groundwork for a successful aviation industry.

Under his leadership, commercial flights started operating at Ibom International Airport, now known as Obong Victor Attah International Airport after its founder.

The Emergence of Ibom Air: Udom Emmanuel’s Leadership

The next significant advancement occurred during the leadership of His Excellency Deacon Udom Emmanuel. When he took office, Emmanuel acknowledged the necessity of a state-owned airline to enhance connectivity within and between states.

As a financial expert, he sought ways to diversify Akwa Ibom State’s economy away from reliance on federal allocations, aiming for the state to become self-dependent and self-sufficient.

Ibom Air began with two aircraft and expanded to five commercial planes, and before he left office, he secured a contract to purchase ten new aircraft for Ibom Air.

The construction of a magnificent international terminal building and a second taxiway complemented this strategic move, boosting the airport’s ability to manage more passenger and cargo traffic.

Emmanuel’s administration finished the MRO facility, outfitting it with advanced maintenance tools and computerized systems. Before his tenure concluded, Ibom Air transformed into a regional airline, showcasing its enhanced operational capabilities and market presence, winning the title of Best Airline each year.

Building on Success: Governor Umo Eno’s Vision

After Emmanuel’s tenure, Governor Umo Eno assumed leadership of Akwa Ibom State, where he has played a pivotal role in the ongoing growth of the aviation industry.

Under his guidance, Ibom Air’s fleet has expanded with the addition of four new aircraft, raising the total to nine. Furthermore, there are plans for eight more aircraft from a previous order placed by Emmanuel during a trade fair in Dubai.

This expansion reflects a strong commitment to enhancing the airline’s reach and operational capabilities.

In preparation for the international terminal’s launch, Governor Eno is overseeing the installation of exquisite finishes to ensure it becomes operational by December 2024.

And he is funding the completion of the second runway and the Governor has also purchase new advanced technological equipment for aircraft landing.

Moreso, Governor Eno has made the development of human capital in the aviation sector a priority. He has taken proactive steps to send hundreds of Akwa Ibom students to various aviation schools, where they can pursue studies in areas such as piloting, aeronautical engineering, air traffic control, and logistics handling.

This initiative aims to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of supporting Ibom Air’s operations and fostering sustainable growth within the aviation industry.

UMO ENO’S VISION OF THE AVIATION VILLAGE: A COMPREHENSIVE AVIATION DEVELOPMENT

In a landmark move, Governor Umo Eno will today flag off the construction of an Aviation Village. This ambitious project is set to include residential estates for aviation staff, educational institutions for their children, an Aviation School to train experts in the aviation industry, markets, shopping malls, and recreational centers.

The Aviation Village aims to create a self-sustaining community that supports the aviation workforce, thereby enhancing the overall ecosystem surrounding the industry.

Akwa Ibom’s Aviation Future

With the combination of a fully operational MRO facility, additional eight Aircraft for a growing airline, a new international terminal, a second runway, and the upcoming Aviation Village, Akwa Ibom State is positioning itself as a premier aviation hub in sub-Saharan Africa.

Ibom Air has already received accolades, being recognized as the best airline in Nigeria multiple times. This recognition not only boosts the airline’s reputation but also raises Akwa Ibom’s profile on the global aviation map, and no long time it will become an international Air transport provider.

As Akwa Ibom State continues to develop its aviation infrastructure and services, the economic implications are profound and internally generated revenue in the State will increase.

The state is poised to attract investments, create jobs, and foster tourism, significantly turning around its economic fortunes.

Governor Umo Eno aims to implement effective strategies and maintain strong leadership commitment, allowing Akwa Ibom to become an international airline hub that connects Nigeria globally and improves residents’ quality of life.

The evolution of Akwa Ibom State’s aviation industry showcases the power of visionary leadership and strategic planning.

Beginning with the aspirations of Obong Victor Attah, fueled by the ambitious initiatives of Senator Godswill Akpabio, and further developed under the financial strategies of Deacon Udom Emmanuel, the state is now making significant strides under Governor Umo Eno.

These efforts are propelling Akwa Ibom toward a promising future in aviation, benefiting both its economy and its citizens.

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