In a landmark achievement for the Niger Delta region, Bayelsa State has officially entered the aviation league with the successful inaugural flight of its newly acquired aircraft.
A Historic Touchdown in Bayelsa
On Tuesday, November 27, 2025, a significant chapter was written in the annals of Bayelsa State's history. An ATR-72/600 aircraft, freshly acquired by the state government, made its triumphant inaugural flight from Abuja to the Bayelsa State International Airport.
The aircraft departed from the domestic wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at 09:30 a.m., carrying a high-profile delegation of approximately 50 passengers and crew. On board were Governor Douye Diri himself, the immediate past Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah, and other distinguished personalities.
Celebrating a New Era of Connectivity
The flight, which lasted about 70 minutes, touched down at the Bayelsa airport at 10:40 a.m., where it was greeted with jubilation by a massive crowd and received a traditional water cannon salute from the airport's fire trucks.
Governor Diri described the event as historic, emphasizing his administration's commitment to fulfilling its promise of connecting the people of Bayelsa to other parts of Nigeria and the world by air. He stated that the inauguration was a moment of deep gratitude and celebration for every Bayelsan, marking a decisive step in strengthening the state's aviation capacity and expanding its economic horizons.
The passenger list for this historic journey included key figures such as:
- The Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri
- The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Sam Ogbuku
- Members of the state’s National Assembly Caucus
- The President of the Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Ben Okaba
- The National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, Dr. Boladei Igali
- The Managing Director of Premium Trust Bank, Emmanuel Emefienim
A Boost for Regional Economy and Pride
This acquisition is part of a broader initiative by the Governor Douye Diri administration to boost the state's infrastructure and economic potential. The successful launch of the aircraft service is expected to significantly improve transportation links for the oil-rich state, potentially attracting more business and investment to the region.
The event underscores Bayelsa's growing profile as a developing hub in the Niger Delta, with the state-owned aircraft poised to play a crucial role in enhancing mobility for its citizens and fostering greater integration with the national and global economy.
