Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has announced plans by his administration to establish a state-owned commercial airline as part of efforts to create employment opportunities for indigenous pilots.
The governor disclosed this during the 40th Kano State Executive Council meeting held at the Government House, Kano, where he received several awards, including a recognition from the Kano State Pilot Association for supporting members to complete their aviation training.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the proposed airline is expected to commence operations within the next one year.
Yusuf said the airline would serve as a platform for engaging Kano indigenes who have completed their professional pilot training, assuring that the government would provide the necessary support to ensure the project’s successful take-off.
By the grace of God, the proposed Kano Airline is expected to commence operations within the next one year,” the governor said.
He also expressed satisfaction with the performance of Kano-sponsored pilots who underwent training in Jordan under a programme initiated by a previous administration, describing their achievements as encouraging.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the aviation sector and ensuring that the trained pilots are provided opportunities to contribute to the state’s development.
Earlier, Chairman of the Kano State Pilot Association, Naziru Ibrahim, commended Yusuf for facilitating the revalidation of members’ flying licences, describing the intervention as a major boost for the pilots’ careers.
He appealed to the governor to further assist members of the association in securing their final certifications, which would qualify them to operate commercial flights within Nigeria and internationally.
