₦airaland Forum

Enugu Air has officially commenced the migration of its reservation system to its proprietary digital platform, marking a transition toward full operational independence. The move follows the carrier’s successful acquisition of its Air Operator Certificate from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority.

The airline announced that starting March 16, all flight reservations will be processed exclusively through its official website. Passengers traveling between March 13 and March 15 are advised to continue using the platform of the airline’s operating partner, XEJet Limited. This digital shift signals the carrier’s readiness to manage its commercial identity and internal operations directly.

The transition comes on the heels of a significant regulatory achievement. In a process described by the NCAA as historic, Enugu Air secured its AOC in just under six months—a timeline significantly shorter than the industry standard of 15 to 24 months. NCAA Director General Chris Najomo noted that the airline further distinguished itself by launching with a full fleet of six aircraft, a rare feat for a startup carrier in the Nigerian market.

The rapid certification highlights the ambitious economic agenda of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah. The administration aims to position Enugu as a primary regional hub for commerce, logistics, and aviation within West and Central Africa. State officials emphasized that the airline is a cornerstone of a broader strategy to enhance trade, tourism, and investment.

Tolu Ita, Chief Executive Officer of Enugu Air, attributed the record-breaking certification timeline to the state’s leadership and the professionalism of the regulatory body. She reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to maintaining global safety standards and providing competitive customer service as it enters this new phase.

Looking ahead, Enugu State Commissioner for Transportation, Obi Ozor, revealed plans to expand the fleet to 20 aircraft. The strategic roadmap includes the launch of regional operations before the end of 2026, aimed at connecting Enugu to key domestic and international markets.

Technical partner XEJet Limited played a crucial role in navigating the rigorous evaluation process. Emmanuel Iza, Group CEO of XEJet, noted that the partnership demonstrates the effectiveness of collaboration between government entities and private aviation stakeholders in advancing the nation’s transport infrastructure.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has announced the successful completion of the state government’s acquisition of the long-defunct Star Paper Mills Ltd in Aba, signaling a determined effort to return the factory to profitability, productivity, and large-scale employment generation. The state concluded the acquisition from the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) with a final payment of N2.5 billion.

Governor Otti confirmed the landmark deal during the formal handover ceremony of the asset by AMCON at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Umuahia. Established in 1976 by the late Abia entrepreneur Chief Nnanna Kalu, the factory was once a significant source of livelihood, providing thousands of jobs before its subsequent collapse into disuse.

The recovery of the asset, according to sources, became necessary after the company was previously sold under controversial circumstances, with alleged breaches of the sales agreement. The current administration’s intervention, in cooperation with AMCON, facilitated the successful recovery, with AMCON reportedly refunding payments made by the previous buyer.

Governor Otti stated that the acquisition aligns perfectly with his campaign pledge to revive moribund industries, specifically listing Star Paper Mills, Aba Textile Mills, Ogwe Golden Chicken, and International Equitable as priority targets. He promised that once operational, the factory is projected to generate between 3,000 and 5,000 direct and indirect jobs while attracting crucial private sector investment.

Further broadening his industrialization agenda, the governor disclosed that payment for Afro Beverages Ltd, another industrial facility under AMCON, is expected to be finalized within the coming weeks. He noted that prospective investors are already lined up to partner with the state in revitalizing these companies. Governor Otti clarified the government’s approach, saying, “The government’s role is to de-risk investments and attract capable private sector operators.” He then challenged the organized private sector, represented by the Umuahia and Aba Chambers of Commerce, to assume responsibility for running the revived industries efficiently.

Mazi Mike Akpara, the Commissioner for Industry and SMEs, hailed the handover as a pivotal moment in Abia’s industrial resurgence, emphasizing that bringing these factories back to life will significantly boost the state’s Gross Domestic Product and alleviate unemployment. AMCON Executive Director, Dr. Aminu Mukhtar Dan’amu, praised the governor’s commitment during the ceremony, describing Star Paper Mills as “an icon woven into the history of Abia State and Nigeria.” The handover event was witnessed by leaders of the Aba and Umuahia Chambers of Commerce, alongside senior government officials

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)-enforced sit-at-home protests, which began in August 2021 to demand the release of leader Nnamdi Kanu, have crippled Southeast economy and security, inflicting N7.6 trillion in losses and claiming 776 lives, according to a new report by SBM Intelligence. The weekly lockdowns, initially symbolic, have devolved into a violent crisis, paralyzing commerce, education, and transportation while fueling militia activity.

Key commercial hubs like Onitsha and Aba bore the brunt, with the transport sector alone losing an estimated N13 billion daily at the peak of the protests. Supply chains collapsed, businesses shuttered, and students missed critical national exams like WAEC and NECO due to recurring closures. Though IPOB claims compliance is voluntary, fear of attacks by “unknown gunmen” enforcing the order has driven most adherence, with only 29% of residents actively supporting the directive.

The report linked 332 violent incidents between 2021 and 2025 to the unrest, with Imo State recording the highest casualties (332 deaths from 130 attacks) followed by Anambra (202 deaths). IPOB’s Eastern Security Network (ESN), initially formed to combat rural insecurity, has been implicated in assaults on security forces and infrastructure, worsening regional tensions. Annual fatalities surged from 137 in 2021 to 313 in 2024, with 75 deaths already reported in 2025.

SBM Intelligence warned that the protests’ evolution into a prolonged crisis threatens long-term economic recovery and social stability, urging coordinated interventions to address grievances and restore security in the Southeast.

Kenyan runners swept the podium at the 2025 Enugu City International Marathon, with Koros Ken clinching victory in the men’s category and claiming the 15,000 top prize.His compatriots Steve Rasway and Bernard Sang followed closely, securing second(10,000) and third ($5,000) places, respectively. Kenya’s dominance extended to the women’s race, where Shauline Chepkiru Koech triumphed as champion.


Nigerian runner Davou Ezekiel from Jos emerged as the top local athlete, earning the ₦3 million prize reserved for indigenous competitors. His performance highlighted homegrown talent amid a field of over 100 international elite athletes and thousands of Nigerian participants.

Governor Peter Mbah, who energized the event by joining the 10km race, praised the marathon’s flawless execution and vibrant turnout. “This race has shown us the power of sports to unite and inspire our youth,” he said. “The level of participation and competition exceeded our expectations, and it motivates us to make next year’s edition even grander.”


The marathon, hailed as a world-class spectacle, drew massive crowds and showcased Enugu’s organizational prowess. Governor Mbah emphasized the state’s commitment to leveraging sports for economic growth and youth engagement, vowing to expand the event’s scale and global appeal in 2026.

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has officially promoted his Chief Security Officer, Alex Akinlalu, to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP). The governor personally conducted the decoration ceremony at the Government House in Enugu on Wednesday, alongside the state’s Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Giwa.

In a post on his verified social media accounts, Governor Mbah praised Akinlalu as “a disciplined, strategic, and exceptionally dependable officer” whose professionalism and dedication have been instrumental in ensuring security within the state.

“ACP Akinlalu’s promotion is a well-earned recognition of his outstanding service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to duty,” the governor stated. “His track record speaks volumes, and this elevation is a testament to his excellence.”


The newly decorated officer has served as Governor Mbah’s chief security aide since the administration’s inception, playing a key role in coordinating security operations in Enugu. His promotion follows years of distinguished service in the Nigeria Police Force.

Governor Mbah also commended the police hierarchy for recognizing Akinlalu’s contributions, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in maintaining peace across Enugu State.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, on Tuesday presented an N18 million relief cheque to the Enugu State Government to support victims of the January 25 petrol tanker explosion at Ugwu Onyeama along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway. The tragic incident claimed multiple lives and left several others injured.

Presenting the donation in Enugu, the Speaker’s delegation, led by Hon. Nnolim Nnaji and comprising other members of the Enugu State Caucus in the House, described the explosion as a national tragedy. The lawmakers commended Governor Peter Mbah for his swift response in providing aid to affected families and reaffirmed the House’s commitment to standing with states during crises.

“We are here to deliver the Speaker’s heartfelt condolences and this financial support to further assist the victims and their families,” said Hon. Nnaji. “The House of Representatives recognizes the gravity of this loss and will continue to support Enugu State in its recovery efforts.”

Governor Mbah expressed deep gratitude for the gesture, noting that the funds would be disbursed transparently to those impacted by the disaster. “This donation reflects the Speaker’s compassion and solidarity beyond words. We assure you that every naira will reach the intended beneficiaries to help alleviate their suffering,” the governor stated.

The explosion, which occurred at a busy section of the expressway, had drawn national attention, prompting calls for improved safety measures on highways. The Enugu State Government has since intensified efforts to assist victims while reviewing transport regulations to prevent future tragedies.