The Plateau State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with United Nigeria Airlines to introduce scheduled flight operations on two new routes, linking Jos with Kano in the North-West and Owerri in the South-East.
Under the agreement, flights to each destination will commence this month and would operate twice weekly. The MoU was signed on Monday, November 9, in the office of the Commissioner for Transport, Jatau Gyang in Jos, the Plateau State capital.
Speaking after the signing, Gyang said the partnership is part of the state’s effort to position Plateau as a leading destination for investment, tourism, commerce and economic opportunity. He thanked United Nigeria Airlines’ management for its confidence in the state’s vision.
The government said the Jos–Owerri route will improve connectivity for residents of Plateau and neighbouring states to the South-East and South-South, while the Jos–Kano route will strengthen links with the North-West.
“The choice of Owerri and Kano as destinations for this partnership is strategic and deliberate, taking into consideration their geographical locations, economic relevance and potential to facilitate connectivity across different geopolitical regions of Nigeria.
“The Jos–Owerri route is particularly significant because of Owerri’s proximity and accessibility to the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones. This connection is expected to provide residents of Plateau State and neighbouring states with improved access to these two important regions, thereby facilitating trade, investment, tourism, social interactions and other economic activities.
“Similarly, the Jos–Kano route is designed to strengthen Plateau State’s connectivity with the North-West geopolitical region. Kano, being one of the major commercial and industrial centres in Northern Nigeria, offers enormous opportunities for business partnerships, trade and economic exchanges,” Gyang said.
While responding on behalf of United Nigeria Airlines, the Managing Director, Mazi Osita Okonkwo made it clear that the MoU is unique because it links the South East, South-West and North-Central. He said Plateau State is special and strategic, and that United Nigeria Airlines is out to make sure it delivers on the exceptional service which it is known for.
Mazi Okonkwo thanked Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his vision and strategic direction in making this a reality and also commended the Commissioner for his efforts. “United Nigeria Airlines will deliver on what it is known for which is excellent customer service. We guarantee that this partnership will be a win-win everyone,” Okonkwo said.
