Ebonyi Acquires Three Aircraft, Unveils Cement

The Ebonyi State Government has announced the procurement of three aircraft under the Ebonyi Air Outfit, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen economic growth and improve connectivity.

The aircraft are expected to arrive in the state on January 26, according to Governor Francis Nwifuru.

The governor made the disclosure on Thursday in Abakaliki during his New Year broadcast, describing the initiative as a deliberate economic intervention rather than a prestige project. He explained that improved air connectivity would position Ebonyi as a more accessible destination for investors, professionals, andaja and business operators.

According to Nwifuru, reliable air transport will ease business operations, enhance mobility, promote tourism, and significantly reduce the cost and time of travel. He said the establishment of Ebonyi Air would strengthen the state’s engagement with the national and global economy while attracting new investment opportunities.

The governor added that enhanced connectivity would create favourable conditions for trade, investment and job creation, making the state more competitive. He stressed that the initiative aligns with his administration’s commitment to opening Ebonyi to sustainable economic activities.

In addition to the aviation project, Nwifuru announced plans to establish a modern cement factory in the state to harness Ebonyi’s vast limestone deposits. He noted that raw materials sourced from Ebonyi are often transported outside the state for processing, a practice the government intends to reverse by adding value locally.

The governor said processing limestone within the state would retain jobs, skills and income in local communities, while also supporting industrial development and generating direct and indirect employment. He added that the project would boost internally generated revenue and support construction activities across the state.

Nwifuru described both projects as part of a long-term strategy to transition Ebonyi from a consumption-based economy to a production-driven one that maximises its natural resources. He emphasised that economic progress must align with democratic responsibility, noting that development is strongest when leadership reflects the will of the people.

On local government administration, the governor assured residents that local government elections will be conducted in 2026, pledging that the process would be free, fair and devoid of candidate imposition. He reiterated that council leaders must emerge through popular votes rather than appointments or political influence.

The governor also highlighted his administration’s achievements across key sectors, including the economy, infrastructure, education and healthcare, while pledging to consolidate existing gains and sustain development across all areas of governance.