By Asuquo Cletus
The Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, has pledged to acquire three additional aircraft for the state-owned airline, Cali Air, to boost transportation and tourism in the state.
Otu made the announcement at the Margaret Ekpo Airport on Tuesday, in Calabar during the commissioning of the ultramodern library and two newly acquired Cali Air jets.
The event was attended by the Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, who joined the governor in formally inaugurating the projects..
Speaking at the event, Otu said the projects were part of Cross River’s alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic empowerment, education, and infrastructure growth.
“This is part of our vision to strengthen the sub-national economy, improve food security, and open Cross River to greater opportunities. The ultramodern state library will serve our youths in this digital age, while the Cali Air fleet will boost connectivity, tourism, and commerce,” the governor said.
He explained that the expansion of the airline would complement ongoing investments in road and transport infrastructure aimed at reducing travel costs for residents and businesses.
Vice President Shettima, in his remarks, commended the state government for the initiatives, describing them as a testament to effective governance and strategic investment.
He hailed the library as “a centre of knowledge and innovation” and the new aircraft as “a bold step towards economic transformation,” urging other states to adopt similar approaches that combine educational and transportation development.
The two Cali Air jets, owned by the Cross River State Government, are expected to begin operations immediately on domestic and regional routes, while the additional three aircraft are slated for delivery in the coming months.
