The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), has reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to supporting indigenous airlines, assuring the Sokoto State Government of continued assistance as it prepares to launch Caliphate Airlines.
Keyamo gave the assurance in Abuja while receiving a high-powered delegation from the Sokoto State Government, led by the Governor's Chief of Staff, Aminu Haliru Dikko, ahead of the commencement of commercial operations by the state-backed carrier.
The delegation included the Secretary to the State Government, Mohammad Bello Sifawa; the Director of Operations of Caliphate Airlines, Capt. Oluwashina Agbelese; and the airline's Account Manager, Capt. Abdulkarim Abioye.
Speaking during the visit, Dikko conveyed the appreciation of Sokoto State Governor, Dr. Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, to the minister for his support towards the establishment of the airline.
He said Caliphate Airlines, established as a limited liability company to provide domestic passenger and cargo services, is scheduled to be inaugurated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on August 18, 2026.
According to him, the visit was also to seek the minister's continued support in facilitating the timely issuance of the Airline Operator Certificate (AOC), which is required for the airline to commence commercial operations as planned.
Providing an update on the airline's readiness, the Director of Operations, Capt. Oluwashina Agbelese, said Caliphate Airlines would begin operations with five regional jets comprising three Embraer ERJ-145LR aircraft and two Embraer 190-100 series aircraft.
He disclosed that two of the aircraft have already arrived in Nigeria, while the remaining three are expected before the official launch.
Agbelese added that the airline's initial route network would connect Sokoto, Abuja and Kano, with plans to expand to other domestic destinations as operations grow.
Responding, Keyamo commended the Sokoto State Government for investing in the aviation sector, describing the initiative as a strategic step towards boosting economic development, improving regional connectivity and creating jobs.
The minister assured the delegation that the Federal Government would continue to support genuine investors in the aviation industry, adding that all necessary efforts would be made to ensure regulatory processes are completed professionally and without unnecessary delays.
"I will do everything within my capacity to support this initiative and ensure that any impediments capable of delaying the commencement of operations are addressed promptly, while maintaining the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance," Keyamo said.
He expressed confidence that the successful launch of Caliphate Airlines would strengthen air connectivity in the North-West, stimulate economic activities and contribute to the Federal Government's drive to expand domestic air transportation and create employment opportunities.