Gov Yusuf unveils plan for Kano-owned airline, promises jobs for state-sponsored pilots

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has unveiled plans to establish a state-owned commercial airline as part of efforts to create employment opportunities for Kano indigenes who have completed professional pilot training.

The governor disclosed the plan during the 40th Executive Council Meeting held at the Government House, Kano, according to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

Yusuf said the proposed Kano Airline was expected to commence operations within the next year, adding that the project was designed to provide direct employment for state-sponsored pilots and strengthen the state’s presence in the aviation sector.

He assured members of the Kano State Pilot Association that his administration would provide all the necessary support to ensure the successful establishment and operation of the airline.

The governor made the announcement after receiving several awards, including an honour from the Kano State Pilot Association in recognition of his administration’s support for members of the association to complete their aviation training.

Yusuf also expressed satisfaction with the academic performance of Kano-sponsored pilots who underwent training in Jordan under a programme initiated by a previous administration.

He pledged to build on the achievements of the programme by creating opportunities that would enable the trained pilots to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Kano State Pilot Association, Naziru Ibrahim, commended the governor for his continued support for members, particularly his intervention in facilitating the revalidation of their flying licences.

Ibrahim appealed to the governor to further assist the pilots in obtaining their final certifications, which would qualify them to operate commercial flights within Nigeria and on international routes.

The proposed airline, if realised, is expected to enhance employment opportunities for trained aviation professionals from Kano while expanding the state’s investment in the transport sector.