Edo State Signs Agreement to Launch State-Owned Airline with Chinese Partners

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has taken a significant step toward launching a state-owned airline. On Wednesday, he signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China Express Airline Co. Ltd and KDN Aero at the Government House in Benin City.

The signing ceremony included representatives from the Chinese airline, led by President Shansheng Li. Governor Okpebholo expressed optimism about the partnership, stating that the airline, named Edo Air, will be operational soon.

The Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, explained that this agreement follows a fact-finding trip to China by a seven-member delegation on September 14, 2026. This trip was aimed at finding potential partners for the airline. Ikhilor led the delegation, which included various government officials and aviation experts.

During their visit, the delegation assessed the capabilities of China Express Airline and the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, the country’s main aircraft manufacturer. Ikhilor noted that China Express made a strong impression during their visit, particularly after touring their flight-monitoring operations.

At the signing event, Li presented a model aircraft to Governor Okpebholo. The Managing Director of KDN Aero, Tianzhi Chen, also spoke about the airline’s operations and capabilities. Other attendees included the Deputy Governor, the Head of Service, and several other government officials.