. . . Govt, aviation firm to establish light aircraft assembling plant
By ANDY ASEMOTA
The production of light aircrafts is set to be finally brought on stream in Nigeria, specifically in Benin City, Edo State, Ehis Ordia, chief executive of the aviation conglomerate behind the project, has disclosed.
The organisation will also collaborate with the state government to commence the training of Edo youths as pilots, aviation mechanics and others.
These series of breakthroughs, said Ordia, when the State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, marked the collaboration at the Benin Airport, on Thursday, revealed a trend and a possible revolution in Nigeria’s aviation sector in a country depending heavily on conventional road sector.
“This company will start assembling light aircrafts here in Benin City. We will build factory here in this airport and start assemblage,” he stated.
According to him, “Edo State will be the first state in Nigeria where aircrafts will be assembled. The trainings here will include that of pilots and others.”
Ordia was optimistic that this company’s partnership with the state government would re-write the narrative that aviation was for the rich rather than a means of transportation.
The Edo State – born business mogul attributed the strategic partnership to the vision and foresight of Okpebholo for growth and development of the state in the area of aviation.
“We have a rich history of aviation in Edo State and we have been working for many years transform the sector,” he declared.
Inspired by the breakthrough, Gov Okpebholo, who noted that the success so far was in tandem with his campaign promise to build a new Edo State, described the project as the beginning of the expected development.
His words: “This is a huge investment in Edo State, my administration will support the organisation to ensure that our people benefit maximally from the gesture in a bid to boost the diversification of the state’s economy.”
The governor further said the multiplier effect of the aviation industry would go beyond Edo and Nigeria borders, while applauding the direction and focus of the project in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu
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