Kano to launch state-owned airline — Gov Yusuf

Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has announced plans to establish a state-owned commercial airline as part of efforts to create employment opportunities for trained pilots from the state.

Yusuf made the announcement during the 40th Executive Council Meeting at the Government House in Kano, where he received several awards, including one from the Kano State Pilot Association for his administration’s support toward the training of indigenous pilots.

A statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Dawakin-Tofa, said the proposed airline is expected to commence operations within the next year.

The governor said the state government was committed to providing the necessary resources to ensure the successful launch of the airline.

“By the grace of God, the proposed Kano Airline will commence operations within the next one year. We are committed to providing all the necessary support to actualise the project and ensure its successful operation,” Yusuf said.

He noted that the initiative would provide job opportunities for Kano indigenes who have completed professional pilot training while strengthening the state’s participation in Nigeria’s aviation industry.

Yusuf also commended the performance of Kano-sponsored pilots who underwent aviation training in Jordan under a programme initiated by a previous administration.

He said the government would continue to invest in human capital development by supporting qualified pilots and creating opportunities for them to contribute to the growth of the aviation sector.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Kano State Pilot Association, Naziru Ibrahim, thanked the governor for facilitating the revalidation of members’ flying licences.

He appealed for additional support to enable members obtain their final certifications, which would qualify them to fly commercial aircraft both within Nigeria and internationally.

The association presented an award to the governor in recognition of his administration’s commitment to advancing the careers of young pilots from the state.