Cross River: VP Shettima Inaugurates Two New Cally Air Aircraft in Calabar
By Judex Okoro
Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday inaugurated two newly acquired Cross River State–owned Cally Air aircraft, commending Governor Bassey Otu for his administration’s forward-looking investments in aviation and other critical sectors of the economy.
Speaking at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport in Calabar, where he represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Shettima described the acquisition as a strategic step toward economic growth, tourism promotion, and positioning Cross River as a leader in regional aviation.
He praised Governor Otu’s vision, noting that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda in strengthening food security, energy security, and economic self-reliance.
“I am honoured and privileged to launch this new fleet in service to God and humanity. Cross River is demonstrating what strong subnational leadership looks like. The country needs more of this kind of vision,” the Vice President stated.
Governor Otu, in his remarks, said the aviation sector remains central to his administration’s tourism development strategy, with plans to expand the Cally Air fleet from four to seven aircraft.
“We already have two aircraft, have added another two today, and hope to add three more to make Cross River an aviation hub serving not just Guinea Bissau but the entire Gulf of Guinea,” he said.
He reiterated his commitment to aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda and building a strong, self-reliant subnational economy that contributes significantly to Nigeria’s development.
The Vice President also inaugurated the remodeled Cross River State Library and the flagged-off the eighth Expanded National MSME Clinic in the state.
