By Aminu Garko
Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has unveiled plans by his administration to establish a state-owned commercial airline aimed at creating direct employment opportunities for Kano indigenes who have completed their professional pilot training.
This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
Governor Yusuf made the announcement during the 40th Executive Council Meeting held at Government House, Kano, where he received multiple awards, including an honour from the Kano State Pilot Association in recognition of his commitment to supporting members of the association to complete their aviation training.
The governor disclosed that the proposed Kano Airline was expected to commence operations within the next one year.
He assured members of the association that the state government would provide all the necessary support to actualise the project and ensure the successful operation of the airline.
Governor Yusuf also expressed satisfaction with the outstanding academic performance of the Kano-sponsored pilots who underwent training in Jordan under a programme initiated by a previous administration.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Kano State Pilot Association, Naziru Ibrahim, commended Governor Yusuf for his continued support, particularly in facilitating the revalidation of members’ flying licences.
He appealed to the governor to further assist the pilots in securing their final certifications, which would qualify them to operate commercial flights within Nigeria and internationally.