OPINION: Of New Aircraft, Highway Repairs and Gov. Otu’s Drive To Tackle C’River’s Transport Woes
The challenge of accessibility to Calabar, whether by air, road, or sea, has been a recurring theme in many agitations in Cross River State. The difficulties of traveling to and from Calabar have become a nightmare, with limited flight options, impassable roads, and security concerns on waterways, creating huge concerns for residents and visitors alike.
Frustrated with a long trip to Calabar after flying to Uyo, I published an article on the 14th of June calling on the state government to either fast track the establishment of the proposed state owned airline l, CallyAir or engage existing airlines to increase their flight schedules to Calabar to alleviate the stress and exploitation faced by passengers, who endure high costs and limited options on this route. Previously, I’ve also written articles urging governments to consider fixing failed highways in the state rather than waiting for the federal government as there is no federal citizen.
Interestingly, while it is encouraging to note that Ibom Air, an airline owned by neighbouring Akwa Ibom State, has recently increased its flight frequency to Calabar to once daily, it is even better to see that Cross River is not only working hard to join the aviation revolution going on in the country with plan to launch its own airline but is addressing the persistent transport woes facing the state with a more holistic approach.
It was just recently that news broke out that the Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu had approved the reconstruction of the failed Awi-Uyanga-Ikom corridor of the Calabar-Ikom-Ogoja federal highway. And yesterday, it was reported that the state took delivery of the widely anticipated two new Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft, with more expected in the coming days. This has brought the state’s fleet to four, including two Boeing 747 purchased by the previous administration under Governor Ben Ayade.
According to government sources, Aero Contractors will continue to operate the Boeing 747, while ValueJet will manage the new Bombardier CRJ1000s until Cross River secures its Air Operator Certificate (AOC). Once obtained, the AOC will enable the state to launch CallyAir as an independent airline, a monumental achievement for the Otu administration that deserves resounding commendation.
During a recent interview with Kelvo Podcast in Abuja, I noted my admiration for this administration’s deliberate focus on development without playing politics with projects. Otu’s focus in security and infrastructure is gradually restoring Cross River’s reputation as a safe haven and a prime destination for tourists, reminiscent of its status as Nigeria’s “Camp David” years ago. With Otu, government has indeed, been a continuum.
Getting CallyAir away from billboards, social media and pages of newspapers to fly as independent airline would mean a lot more than just addressing flight crisis in the state. Akwa Ibom’s success with Ibom Air, which reported a N29 billion profit in its latest financial statement, demonstrates the lucrative potential of a well managed airline. For Cross River, a viable airline would not only address accessibility issues but would create jobs, boost tourism, and enhance the state’s IGR hugely.
With limited flights to Calabar, many passengers are forced to fly to Uyo, and then connect to Calabar by road or sea at an additional cost of over N35,000. This arrangement diverts revenue, including VAT and other taxes, to Akwa Ibom, depriving Cross River of funds that should rightfully contribute to its economy. However, with the acquisition of the new Bombardier aircraft, the state now meets the fleet requirements for an AOC. And I’ve no doubt that in the coming days, the state will secure approval to commence independent operation of CallyAir.
Undoubtedly, the Otu’s administration has shown remarkable commitment to boosting economic prospects through infrastructural development and for this, deserves the full support and commendation of Cross Riverians.
Inyali Peter, Ph.D., writes from Abuja.
