Edo State‘s plan to launch its own airline has moved closer to reality. Governor Monday Okpebholo has signed an agreement with two aviation partners to establish Edo Air.
The governor expressed confidence in the project, saying the airline could begin operations soon. However, the state has not announced a confirmed launch date.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at Government House in Benin City. The agreement involves China Express Airline Co. Ltd and KDN Aero.
Speaking after the signing, Okpebholo said the state was ready to begin the partnership.
“By the grace of God, Edo Air will be in the airspace very soon.
So, we are in partnership with you,” the governor said.
Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, explained how the agreement came about. He said a seven-member delegation travelled to China on September 14, 2026.
The team visited China Express Airline and the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC).
Their mission was to examine the companies’ operations and explore possible areas of cooperation.
According to Ikhilor, the delegation was impressed by China Express Airline’s facilities. Its flight-monitoring operations also influenced the decision to pursue the partnership.
During the meeting, China Express Airline President Shansheng Li presented Okpebholo with a model aircraft. Meanwhile, KDN Aero Managing Director Tianzhi Chen explained the company’s operations and capabilities.
The agreement represents another step towards the proposed state-owned airline. The Edo Air project is expected to expand the state’s involvement in the aviation sector.
