After a wait of nearly two years, the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, yesterday received its first-ever international flight, four days to the official landing of international commercial flights.
Billionaire businessman Arthur Eze flew in from Senegal in a private jet, marked 5MPZE, which landed at 3.20pm.
President Goodluck Jonathan approved the upgrading of the airport two years ago and laid the foundation for the building of the international wing early this year.
Although work is still on at the various sections, the Ministry of Aviation has slated the official landing of commercial international flights into Enugu for Saturday.
Ethiopian Airline is billed to fly in and out of the coal city.
Speaking to reporters after the four-hour flight, amid jubilation by residents, who thronged the airport, Eze praised President Jonathan for keeping his promise.
He said the upgrading of the airport would boost the economy of the Southeast.
“Look at me, I flew from Senegal to Enugu for four hours. I don’t need to go to Lagos or Abuja to catch any international flight again.
“It is a good thing and I thank God for the development. The people of the Southeast will live to enjoy this because it will improve our economy,” the businessman said
