By Edet Ikotidem

The Uyo Senatorial District Media Professionals Forum (USDMPF) has commended the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for what it described as strategic and forward-looking investments in the state’s aviation sector, particularly the acquisition of a brand-new Airbus A220-300 for Ibom Air.

USDMPF Commends Gov. Umo Eno on Aviation Investments, Ibom Air Fleet Expansion

The commendation was contained in a resolution of the Forum at its joint Executive Council and Board of Trustees meeting, where members reviewed recent developments in the state’s aviation industry and their potential impact on the economy and people of Akwa Ibom.

The Forum in a statement signed by its Spokesperson Ubon Marcus, expressed optimism that the new Airbus, expected to arrive in Akwa Ibom soon, will further strengthen Ibom Air’s operational capacity, improve passenger connectivity and provide additional room for the airline to expand its network.

USDMPF Commends Gov. Umo Eno

According to the Forum, the latest acquisition represents another milestone in the development of the state-owned airline under Governor Eno’s administration.

It noted that the new Airbus is the third aircraft acquired from Airbus since the Governor assumed office in 2023, while two CRJ 900 aircraft have also been acquired, bringing the number of new aircraft acquired under the administration to five.

For the media professionals, however, the significance of the Governor’s aviation policy extends beyond the acquisition of aircraft.

The Forum particularly applauded the administration for investing simultaneously in the infrastructure and human capital required to support a sustainable aviation ecosystem in the state.

It highlighted the establishment of the Ministry of Aviation Development, completion of the new terminal at Victor Attah International Airport, construction of the Aviation Village, taxiway and apron, improvement of airport access roads and drainage, provision of a security fence, development of the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility, as well as the sponsorship of Akwa Ibom indigenes for overseas pilot training.

The Forum said the combination of these investments could create a broader economic impact by positioning Akwa Ibom to benefit from aviation-related businesses and services.

It noted that the growth of aviation has the potential to stimulate opportunities across hospitality, transportation, logistics, travel, catering, tourism and other supporting sectors.

“Such major investments will require time to deliver their full economic returns. However, we believe that a stronger airline, improved airport infrastructure and a skilled workforce can contribute significantly to trade, tourism, investment, employment and the overall growth of the state’s economy,” the Forum stated.

The USDMPF also placed particular emphasis on the human-capital component of the aviation strategy.

According to the Forum, expanding an airline and developing airport infrastructure will require a growing pool of qualified professionals, including pilots, engineers, cabin crew, technicians, aviation security personnel, airport operations staff and other skilled workers.

It therefore welcomed the sponsorship of Akwa Ibom indigenes for overseas pilot training, describing the initiative as an important investment in the future participation of the state’s people in the aviation industry.

The Forum noted that infrastructure alone cannot create a sustainable aviation industry without qualified professionals to operate and maintain it.

For this reason, it encouraged the state government to continue linking aviation investments with education, technical training and employment opportunities so that young Akwa Ibomites can acquire the skills required to take advantage of emerging opportunities.

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Beyond the immediate benefits of increased air connectivity, the Forum also expressed optimism about the long-term economic possibilities of a growing aviation ecosystem.

A stronger Ibom Air could improve access to Akwa Ibom for investors, tourists, business travellers and other visitors, while improved airport infrastructure could enhance the state’s attractiveness as a destination for business and tourism.

The development of the MRO facility, in particular, could create opportunities for specialised technical services and support the emergence of aviation-related businesses around the airport.

The Forum, while congratulating Governor Eno, the management and staff of Ibom Air and the people of Akwa Ibom State on the latest milestone, urged the administration to sustain the momentum.

It also called for professional management, operational efficiency, accountability and strategic planning in the continued development of the state’s aviation sector.

The USDMPF stressed that the ultimate measure of success should be the ability of these investments to translate into tangible opportunities and improved economic prospects for the people.

As Akwa Ibom continues to expand its aviation infrastructure and Ibom Air grows its fleet, the Forum believes the state is laying the foundation for an industry that could extend far beyond air transportation.

From job creation and skills development to tourism, investment and business growth, the aviation sector could become an increasingly important contributor to the state’s economic future.

The Forum concluded with a message of appreciation to the Governor for sustaining the aviation development agenda, declaring: “Kudos, Your Excellency.”