Ehimenmen Odia, Executive Officer and founder of Auxano Aviation, has highlighted the significant economic opportunities within the aviation sector, stressing that these can be fully realised with the right infrastructure and a conducive environment.
Odia made this known to journalists over the weekend during the inauguration of Auxano Aviation’s Benin-City office, located within the state’s airport premises.
According to him, the commencement of general aviation services in Edo State could make the state a hub for aviation activities.
Odia commended Monday Okpeholo, Edo State Governor for creating an enabling environment for aviation in the state, expressing optimism that Edo would soon produce pilots and aircraft engineers through Auxano’s training programmes.
He said the initiative would enhance service delivery, boost tourism, create jobs, and unlock economic opportunities for the state.
Odia said, “Part of our vision is to develop infrastructure and introduce people to flying their planes, a scenario where doctors, lawyers, and businesspeople can fly to Asaba or Lagos and return the same day. Aviation is an untapped sector, and we believe it can transform Edo State. The economic potential in the aviation sector cannot be overemphasised if proper infrastructure and the enabling environment are provided and harnessed by stakeholders.”
Odia thanked the Edo State government for granting 12 acres of land to build hangars.
Morrison Okunbo, Vice President of Benin Aero Club, praised the vision of the operator for pioneering the first privately funded general aviation service in West Africa.
The event was attended by top government officials, including Lucky Agazuma, Director-General of Edo State Migration Agency; Deborah Okunbor, Managing Director of Edo State Procurement Agency; Dr Maureen Ekhoragbon, Executive Chairman of Edo State Senior Secondary School Board; and Reverend Craig Omorodion, President of Auxano Club, Benin, among others.
