By ABDULLAHI JALALUDDEEN; Editing by BASIRAT MEMUDU
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has announced plans to establish a state-owned commercial airline as part of efforts to create employment opportunities for indigenous pilots trained by the state government.
Yusuf made the announcement during the 40th Kano State Executive Council meeting at the Government House, Kano, while receiving awards from professional bodies, including the Kano State Pilot Association.
He said the proposed airline was expected to commence operations within the next one year and would provide a platform for trained pilots to build their careers.
The governor expressed satisfaction with the performance of Kano-sponsored pilots who underwent professional aviation training in Jordan under a programme initiated by a previous administration.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the aviation sector and ensuring that qualified indigenous pilots contribute to the state’s economic development.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Kano State Pilot Association, Naziru Ibrahim, commended the governor for facilitating the revalidation of members’ flying licences, describing the intervention as a major boost to their professional careers.
He appealed to the state government to further assist members in obtaining their final certifications to enable them operate commercial flights within Nigeria and internationally.
