The Kano state airline is expected to begin commercial operations within one year, Governor Abba Yusuf has announced. This development comes as the government moves to create jobs for indigenes who have completed professional aviation training.
Yusuf disclosed the plan during the 40th Kano State Executive Council meeting at the Government House. His spokesperson, Sunusi Dawakin-Tofa, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Thursday.
The governor said his administration would provide the financial and institutional support required to establish the airline. In addition, the government will ensure its successful operation.
“By the grace of God, the proposed Kano Airline will commence operations within the next one year,” Yusuf said. “We are committed to providing all the necessary support to actualise the project and ensure its successful operation.”
Kano state airline to create jobs
The proposed airline is expected to provide employment opportunities for Kano indigenes who have completed professional pilot training. However, many have yet to secure jobs in the aviation industry.
Yusuf announced the plan after receiving several awards during the council meeting. These included an honour from the Kano State Pilot Association. The group recognised his administration’s support for pilots seeking to complete their training and renew their professional licences.
The governor expressed satisfaction with the performance of pilots sponsored by the state government for training in Jordan. This took place under a programme introduced by a previous administration.
He said the young pilots had demonstrated the skills and commitment required to contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“I am impressed by the outstanding performance of our young pilots,” Yusuf said. “We will continue to support them and create opportunities for them to contribute meaningfully to the development of the aviation sector.”
The governor’s comments suggest that the proposed airline would serve both economic and employment objectives. Beyond providing jobs for pilots, the project could also create opportunities for cabin crew members, engineers, ground handlers and other aviation professionals.
Pilot association seeks further support
Earlier, the Chairman of the Kano State Pilot Association, Naziru Ibrahim, thanked Yusuf for helping members of the group revalidate their flying licences.
Ibrahim said the government’s intervention had enabled the pilots to preserve their professional qualifications while preparing for commercial aviation roles.
“We appreciate Your Excellency for your continued support, particularly in helping our members revalidate their flying licences,” he said.
The association, however, appealed to the governor for additional assistance to help its members obtain their final certifications.
According to Ibrahim, the certifications would qualify the pilots to operate commercial flights within Nigeria and on international routes.
“We appeal for further assistance to enable them obtain their final certifications, which will qualify them to operate commercial flights both within Nigeria and internationally,” he added.
The state government has not yet disclosed the planned routes, fleet size, estimated cost or management structure of the Kano state airline.
However, Yusuf’s one-year timeline indicates that preparations for the project could begin soon. Further details are expected as the government works towards securing regulatory approvals and completing the operational arrangements.
