Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has unveiled plans to establish a state-owned commercial airline to create employment opportunities for indigenes who have completed their professional pilot training.

The governor disclosed this during the 40th Executive Council Meeting held at the 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 development was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Dawakin-Tofa.

Speaking at the meeting, Yusuf said the proposed Kano Airline was expected to commence operations within the next year.

“By the grace of God, the proposed Kano Airline will commence operations within the next one year. We are committed to providing all the necessary support to actualise the project and ensure its successful operation,” the governor said.

Yusuf made the announcement after receiving multiple awards, including one from the Kano State Pilot Association in recognition of his administration’s support for members of the association to complete their aviation training.

The governor also expressed satisfaction with the performance of Kano-sponsored pilots who underwent training in Jordan under a programme initiated by a previous administration.

“I am impressed by the outstanding performance of our young pilots. We will continue to support them and create opportunities for them to contribute meaningfully to the development of the aviation sector,” he added.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Kano State Pilot Association, Naziru Ibrahim, commended the governor for facilitating the revalidation of members’ flying licences.

“We appreciate Your Excellency for your continued support, particularly in helping our members revalidate their flying licences.

“We appeal for further assistance to enable them obtain their final certifications, which will qualify them to operate commercial flights both within Nigeria and internationally,” Ibrahim said.