The Plateau State Government has moved to expand the state’s economic reach through new air links to Kano and Owerri, with the introduction of scheduled flights expected to improve access to major commercial centres and create fresh opportunities for trade, investment and tourism.
The initiative follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the state government and United Nigeria Airlines for the commencement of twice-weekly flights on the Jos–Kano and Jos–Owerri routes.
The agreement was signed on Monday, November 9, 2026, by the Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Jatau Davou Gyang, on behalf of the Plateau State Government, and Mr. Osita Mazi, representing United Nigeria Airlines.
Under the arrangement, the Jos–Kano route is scheduled to commence on November 15, while flights to Owerri are expected to begin on November 25, 2026. The Owerri service was scheduled for a later date due to ongoing maintenance work at the airport.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Gyang said the choice of the two destinations was informed by their economic importance and strategic locations, explaining that the routes would strengthen Plateau’s links with the North-West, South-East and South-South regions.
According to him, “The choice of Kano and Owerri is strategic, considering their economic importance and geographical positions. These routes will strengthen Plateau State’s connections to the North-West, South-East and South-South geopolitical regions.”
He noted that Kano remained a major commercial and industrial centre in Northern Nigeria, while the Jos–Owerri route would provide residents of Plateau and neighbouring states with improved access to business and economic opportunities in the South-East and South-South.
The commissioner said the services would offer travellers a more convenient alternative to long-distance road journeys, while facilitating the movement of people and goods, promoting trade and investment, and supporting tourism development.
Gyang further emphasised the importance of improved air connectivity to the state’s development ambitions, given Plateau’s agricultural potential, cultural heritage, favourable climate and tourism attractions.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the airline to ensure the successful operation and sustainability of the routes, urging residents, business owners, investors and tourism operators to patronise the services when operations begin.
On his part, Mazi described the agreement as a “master stroke”, emphasising its strategic importance in connecting the South-East, North-Central and North-West regions of the country.
He said, “The partnership will go beyond providing air transportation to opening up new frontiers of opportunities in business, investment and tourism, while strengthening economic relationships and facilitating greater movement of people across the regions.”
The new routes are expected to improve Jos’s accessibility and strengthen its potential as a regional aviation gateway, while providing businesses and travellers with additional connections to important commercial destinations.
