Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has said Ibom Air was central to the administration’s plans to expand tourism, connectivity, trade and investment, saying that they will continue to ensure that the airline remains commercially viable, operationally strong, and capable of supporting the State’s wider economic ambitions.

Eno made the assertion during high-level meetings with SAMCO Group Europe and Airbus in Montreal, Canada, ahead of the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) of Ibom Air’s latest brand-new Airbus A220-300 aircraft, stressing that “it is a forex-denominated business, and airlines must be made to function.”

He said the State would continue to make the necessary strategic investments to ensure the full operation of the Aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility at Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, as well as its continued support for the ongoing Ibom Air fleet expansion programme.

According to the Governor, the engagements will be focused on developing the technical and maintenance capabilities required to support Ibom Air’s expanding fleet and strengthen Akwa Ibom’s position in the aviation industry.

Similarly, he added that they’ve first met with Constant Van Shani, CEO of SAMCO, to explore a strategic partnership for the management and operation of the MRO facility, saying, ” We are seeking a practical partnership that would strengthen the State’s aviation infrastructure, create skilled employment, and develop a sustainable local aviation workforce.

The Governor said that they have made substantial financial investments in completing the MRO facility, recalling his team’s visit to SAMCO’s facility, where he was impressed by the company’s technical capabilities and operational standards.

“The proposed relationship should go beyond conventional consultancy, with discussions covering maintenance and technical support for aircraft, particularly those in the Ibom Air fleet, as well as technical training, technology transfer and capacity building.”

Eno therefore argued that building indigenous aviation expertise would reduce dependence on overseas maintenance facilities, strengthen the MRO at Victor Attah International Airport and create opportunities for highly skilled aviation professionals in Akwa Ibom.

Responding, SAMCO CEO, Constant Van Shani, while praising the Governor’s commitment to the proposed partnership, explained that they are glad to know that the Governor and the team are willing to work with us. We are here to get it done beyond consulting.”

SAMCO Aviation Services B.V. is a Netherlands-based aviation maintenance company headquartered at Maastricht-Aachen Airport, specialising in the repair and maintenance of civil aircraft and aerospace equipment.

Present at the meetings were the Ibom Air Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, George Uriesi; members of the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council; and relevant officials of the airline.