FG Backs Caliphate Airlines, Pledges Support Ahead Of August Launch

Minister of aviation and aerospace development, Festus Keyamo has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to supporting indigenous airlines as preparations intensify for the launch of Sokoto State-backed Caliphate Airlines.

The assurance came on Wednesday when the minister received a high-powered delegation from the Sokoto State Government in Abuja ahead of the airline’s planned inauguration by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on August 18, 2026.

The delegation, led by the chief of staff to the Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Haliru Dikko, included the Secretary to the State Government, Mohammad Bello Sifawa, the airline’s Director of Operations, Capt. Oluwashina Agbelese, and Account Manager, Capt. Abdulkarim Abioye.

Speaking during the meeting, Capt. Agbelese disclosed that Caliphate Airlines will commence operations with a fleet of five Embraer regional jets—three ERJ-145LR aircraft and two Embraer 190-100 series aircraft.

He said two of the aircraft have already arrived in Nigeria, while the remaining three are expected before the airline’s official launch.

According to him, the airline will initially operate flights connecting Sokoto, Abuja and Kano, with plans to expand its domestic route network as operations grow.

Responding, Keyamo commended the Sokoto State Government for investing in the aviation sector, describing the initiative as a major boost to economic development, regional integration and job creation.

He assured the delegation that the federal government would continue to support credible investors while ensuring that all regulatory procedures are completed professionally and in line with international aviation safety standards.

According to him, “I will do everything within my capacity to support this initiative and ensure that any impediments capable of delaying the commencement of operations are addressed promptly, while, of course, maintaining the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance.”

Keyamo added that the successful take-off of Caliphate Airlines would strengthen air connectivity across Nigeria’s North-West region, stimulate economic activities and contribute to the federal government’s broader agenda of expanding domestic air transportation and creating employment opportunities.