The Plateau State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with United Nigeria Airlines to commence twice-weekly flight operations on the Jos–Kano and Jos–Owerri routes in a move aimed at improving domestic air connectivity and strengthening economic ties between different regions of the country.
The agreement was signed on behalf of the state government by the Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Davou Gyang Jatau, while the Managing Director of United Nigeria Airlines, Mazi Osita Okonkwo, signed for the airline.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Jatau disclosed that flight operations on the Jos–Kano route would commence on November 15, 2026, while the Jos–Owerri service is scheduled to begin on November 25, subject to the completion of ongoing maintenance work at the Owerri Airport.
He explained that the initiative was part of the Plateau State Government’s efforts to improve transportation infrastructure, enhance accessibility and position the state as a strategic destination for business, tourism and investment.
The introduction of the two routes is expected to provide travellers from Plateau and neighbouring states with more convenient air travel options, while opening new opportunities for trade, commerce, tourism and people-to-people exchanges.
On his part, Okonkwo described the partnership as a creative approach to expanding domestic air connectivity, noting that the new routes would establish a direct travel link between Nigeria’s North Central and North West regions and the South East and South South.
He explained that the arrangement would reduce the traditional dependence on Abuja and Lagos as major connecting hubs for passengers travelling between the regions.
The airline chief expressed optimism that the new services would improve passenger convenience, facilitate regional economic integration and create additional opportunities for businesses and travellers.
The development marks a new chapter in Plateau State’s efforts to strengthen its aviation connectivity, with the direct routes expected to make Jos more accessible to other parts of the country and expand the state’s participation in Nigeria’s domestic air travel network.
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