Okpebholo Courts Aviation Minister, Paves Way for Edo Air

De-Patriot News Desk

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has met with the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, in Abuja, to advance discussions on the proposed Edo Air initiative, a strategic aviation project of the Edo State Government.

According to a statement signed by Patrick Akhere Ebojele, PhD, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the meeting was part of Governor Okpebholo’s ongoing efforts to deepen collaboration with the Federal Government in driving economic growth, improving air connectivity, and unlocking new investment opportunities for Edo State.

The statement disclosed that discussions during the courtesy visit were extensive and forward-looking, with a strong focus on positioning Edo State as a regional hub for business, logistics, and tourism through strategic aviation development.

Governor Okpebholo was quoted as saying that the engagement aligns with his administration’s broader economic development agenda.
“Today, I met with the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, where we had fruitful discussions on aviation development in Nigeria, with particular emphasis on advancing Edo State’s aviation sector. These engagements are part of our broader efforts to drive growth, improve connectivity, and unlock new opportunities for Edo State,” the governor said.

The governor further stated that his administration is deliberately positioning Edo State as a prime destination for investment, noting that the proposed Edo Air project would significantly boost economic activities, enhance tourism, and provide more efficient and reliable transportation for residents and investors.

Responding, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, welcomed the Edo State Government’s vision and recalled Benin City’s historic role in Nigeria’s aviation industry during the era of the defunct Okada Air. He expressed satisfaction that deliberate steps are being taken to revive that legacy.

The minister assured the governor of the Federal Ministry’s support toward the successful implementation of the Edo Air initiative, noting that the project aligns with the Federal Government’s vision of strengthening regional air connectivity, boosting trade, attracting investment, and creating employment opportunities, particularly for youths.

Governor Okpebholo expressed appreciation for the minister’s support and reiterated the Edo State Government’s readiness to work closely with the Federal Government to actualise the project.

The statement added that the meeting reaffirmed the strong partnership between the Edo State Government and the Federal Government in advancing infrastructure development, economic transformation, and national connectivity.