The Bayelsa State Government has acquired two aircraft to launch commercial flight operations at the Bayelsa International Airport. According to a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, the aircraft will be utilized for flights on the Yenagoa-Abuja and Yenagoa-Lagos routes.

Governor Douye Diri announced the development during a courtesy visit by the Prime Minister of the State of Africa in Diaspora, Dr. Tin Louise-George, to Government House in Yenagoa. The governor expressed his administration’s commitment to enhancing the commercial viability of the Bayelsa International Airport for flight operations.

Governor Diri welcomed Dr. Louise-George on his maiden visit to Nigeria and Bayelsa, drawing a comparison between the State of Africa in Diaspora and organizations like Doctors Without Borders. He indicated the state government’s readiness to collaborate on expanding the airport and developing a smart city.

The governor recounted a previous virtual meeting with Dr. Louise-George and her team, facilitated by his Technical Adviser, Prof. Oweikumo Eradiri, during his recent visit to London. He acknowledged the potential benefits of partnering with the State of Africa in Diaspora, given its status as an African government without borders.

Governor Diri explained that the state government had been working to ensure regular daily flights at the airport, having previously arranged with a private airline to operate flights to and from Lagos and Abuja. However, the arrangement had almost collapsed, rendering the airport virtually non-functional.

The acquisition of the two aircraft is a significant step towards reviving the airport’s operations and enhancing connectivity between Bayelsa and major cities in Nigeria. The development is expected to boost economic activity and facilitate travel for residents and visitors alike. With the state government’s commitment to expanding the airport and developing a smart city, the future of the Bayelsa International Airport looks promising.