The Ebonyi State Government has announced the procurement of three aircraft under its proposed Ebonyi Air Outfit, a move it says is aimed at boosting economic activity, investment inflows and connectivity.
Governor Francis Nwifuru disclosed this during his New Year broadcast in Abakaliki, stating that the aircraft are expected to arrive in the state on January 26. According to him, the initiative is a strategic economic decision rather than a prestige project.
Nwifuru said improved air connectivity would ease business operations, attract investors, support tourism and reduce travel time and costs for residents and professionals operating within and outside the state.
He explained that reliable air transport would strengthen Ebonyi’s competitiveness by opening the state to wider economic engagement and new opportunities across the country and beyond.
Beyond aviation, the governor announced plans to establish a modern cement factory to harness the state’s abundant limestone deposits. He noted that the project is designed to promote value addition, reduce the export of raw materials and retain jobs, skills and income within the state.
According to him, local processing of limestone would support industrial development, create direct and indirect employment and significantly boost the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), while also supporting construction and infrastructure development.
Nwifuru said both projects align with the administration’s broader strategy to transition Ebonyi from a consumption-driven economy to a production-based one that maximises its natural resources.
He added that sustainable economic progress must be anchored on democratic responsibility, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to conducting free and fair local government elections in 2026 without candidate imposition.
The governor also highlighted achievements recorded across key sectors, including infrastructure, education and health, pledging to consolidate on existing gains as part of the state’s long-term development agenda.
