The first international cargo flight landed at the Akanu Ibiam Airport Enugu state earlier today. Below is governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s address at the ceremony marking the historic event…
PROTOCOLS
I am truly delighted to welcome you all to yet another historic occasion in Enugu State and in the existence of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu.
Three years ago, precisely on the 24th of August, 2013, we welcomed the first ever international passenger flight to Enugu operated by the Ethiopian Airlines.
Today, we have gathered again to celebrate the first landing of cargo at this same Airport and which once more, has happened courtesy of the Ethiopian Airlines.
Needless to say that this event marks yet another very significant milestone in the history of aviation in Enugu State and indeed, the entire south east region.
We certainly cannot overemphasize the tremendous socio-economic benefits that this development promises to bring to the region.
It means that not only can our people fly to and fro all parts of the world but they can now have bulk cargo delivered to them via this airport from every corner of the planet. It will save costs, enhance convenience and safety in importation of goods, it will promote employment and more importantly, it will help raise the international profile of this Airport and by extension, that of Enugu and the entire region.
During the first ever Enugu State Investment Summit that was held in April this year, we had boldly declared that Enugu State is ready for business. Today’s event undoubtedly provides yet evidence in support of that declaration.
We are immensely grateful to the Federal Government for the commitment and the remarkable efforts it made to bring this dream to fruition.
We thank the Ethiopian Airlines for once again taking the lead to bring relief to our people through the provision of services that were once difficult to imagine.
We reassure the Company of the unremitting goodwill of our people and of our continued support, partnership and cooperation towards the actualization of our mutual interests in the economic development of the region.
Ladies and Gentlemen, may I once again, thank you all for coming and it is my pleasure to invite everyone, more especially the business moguls, to take full advantage of this new service, for the benefit of all.
Thank you and God bless.
Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi
Governor, Enugu State
23/8/16
Source
