Frank Nweke Jr, a former minister in Nigeria and gubernatorial aspirant in Enugu State, has shared a critical analysis questioning the ambition of launching a state-owned airline, #EnuguAir, as a misplaced priority. Nweke highlights that the economic and fiscal conditions of the state do not support such high-profile projects at the expense of basic human survival and dignity.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), over 2.6 million people in Enugu State live below the poverty line and find accessing fundamental needs such as food, essential health, education, and sanitary infrastructure challenging. Nweke argues that there are more answers to these immediate challenges faced by most of the state's population than establishing an airline.
Nweke suggests that the state should focus on urgent investments in food security, reliable water supply, healthcare, and infrastructural development. He believes such investments align with the people's immediate needs, paving the path for progressive and sustainable projects.
Furthermore, the United States Travel Advisory lists Enugu State as a place to avoid due to the prevailing security challenges such as crime, kidnapping, and armed gang operations. Hence, the contemplation of a state-owned airline also faces scrutiny due to these issues.
In conclusion, Nweke emphasises prioritising projects that improve the human condition. He advocates re-evaluating the state's economic development strategy to serve its people better.
