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As New State Aviation Company Flies
- Safiu Kehinde
Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has directed the management of the newly inaugurated state-owned Enugu Airlines to shut the aircraft’s door against the state governor, Peter Mbah, if he comes late for take-off.
Keyamo gave the charge while speaking at the inauguration of the new state aviation company at the state’s capital, Enugu, on Monday.
The aviation minister pleaded with the airline management to run Enugu Air with highest level of professionalism, warning them against bureaucratic practices and mismanagement of the airline like the defunct Nigerian Airways.
“What is left for advice before I leave here is that do not allow Enugu Air go the way of the Nigerian airways. I beg you, run it professionally. Do not let bureaucracy to kill Enugu Air. Be prompt in your departure, be prompt in your arrival.
“The CEO of Enugu Air, I want to give you a directive. If the governor is two minutes late, close the door and take off.
“Run it professionally. Do not say three of my friends are coming. They are friends of Enugu, give them three tickets. No! This one that you are clapping today, there won’t be free tickets o.” He said.
While urging Enugu people to embrace the new airline, Keyamo hailed Mbah for the initiative, declaring him one of the best governors in Nigeria.
“It is an incredible vision you have here. Mr. President have said it himself. I’m only reflecting what the President said.
“Beyond party line, we should not be afraid to say this. You have a progressive spirit.
“You have done well for Enugu State and you are one of the best performing governor.
“If you want it to survive, Enugu people, support the airline. He has made it available. There will be flights from Enugu now.” He said.
The aviation Minister charged Mbah submit a request for the approval of the Enugu Air for regional operation.
Keyamo pledged to support the airline and ensure it is in full operation.
“Enugu will be a bigger international hub now. And I just whispered to him now that we are going to approve regional operation from here to African States.
“Bring your letter tomorrow. We are going to approve it. But support it Enugu people.
“Rise up and support your airline. Don’t ask for free tickets. Be prompt, come on time, check-in on time. Do not complain when you miss your flight when you are late.
“Dr. Peter Mbah, the people of Enugu State, I will make this pledge. I will support Enugu Air. I will stand by Enugu Air.
“I will go round the world with you looking for aircrafts to lease for Enugu Air. I will give personal guarantees for you to get aircrafts to run Enugu Air.” He added.