New Airbus aircraft signals consistency, expansion of Ibom Air, says Eno

File: Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has described the acquisition of a new Airbus aircraft for Ibom Air as a significant milestone, saying it reflects the consistency of his administration’s investment in expanding the state-owned airline and strengthening the aviation sector.

A statement issued from the state government’s media unit in Uyo, the state capital, on Thursday, said the governor stated this while speaking with newsmen shortly after arriving at the Ibom International Airport.

Eno said the new aircraft was significant not only to Ibom Air but to the state’s broader efforts to build a strong aviation ecosystem, adding that the latest acquisition brings the number of Airbus aircraft to three since his administration assumed office in 2023.

According to him, the development demonstrated his administration’s consistency and deliberate investment in aviation.

“The new aircraft speaks volumes, not just for Ibom Air, but for Akwa Ibom State as we seek to expand the airline. It shows consistency. This is the third Airbus aircraft since we came into office in 2023, while we have also fully paid for two aircraft. So, we have done five aircraft, and that shows consistency,” the statement said.

Eno also highlighted progress at the Aviation Village, particularly the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility, which he said was nearing completion, adding that when fully operational, the aviation sector would create jobs, generate foreign exchange and contribute significantly to the state’s Gross Domestic Product.

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“When all of this ecosystem begins to function the way it should, you’ll see the jobs it is going to create, the foreign exchange earnings it’s going to bring and, of course, the effect on our GDP as a state,” he noted.

The governor expressed optimism that the investments would translate into tangible benefits and improved quality of life for the people of Akwa Ibom.

“That is where, by the grace of God, we are going to see the dividends of democracy,” he added.

The latest development follows Eno’s recent visit to Montreal, Canada, where he led a state delegation for the pre-delivery inspection of Ibom Air’s third Airbus A220-300.

The brand-new aircraft is expected to arrive at Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, on August 30, 2026, bringing Ibom Air’s fleet to 10 aircraft.

The aircraft is expected to provide additional capacity, support the airline’s network expansion and improve connectivity within Nigeria and beyond.