Governors of the six North-East states have raised ₦10.8 billion in counterpart funding towards the establishment of a regional airline aimed at improving transportation and connectivity across the sub-region.
Chairman of the North-East Governors’ Forum (NEGF) and Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, disclosed this during the forum’s 13th meeting held in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Zulum said the amount had so far been realised from contributions by governors in the region, while the remaining counterpart funds were expected to be provided before the end of October to facilitate the commencement of flight operations.
The proposed North-East Air Shuttle is expected to make the movement of people and goods within and between the six states faster and easier, while supporting regional economic integration.
The six states are Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe.
The governors also resolved to strengthen transportation and energy infrastructure across the region as part of broader efforts to reduce travel costs and stimulate economic activity.
The regional airline initiative forms part of the broader development agenda adopted by the NEGF, covering infrastructure, energy, security, education and economic development.
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