ENUGU – Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has addressed the runway excursion involving the state-owned carrier, Enugu Air, at Benin Airport in Edo State, assuring the public that safety remains the airline’s highest priority.
In a statement personally signed and released to journalists on Friday, Mbah expressed sympathy for the 63 passengers and five crew members who were on board the Embraer E170 aircraft during Thursday’s incident, describing the experience as traumatic.
He expressed gratitude that no lives were lost and that no injuries had been reported.
“The Enugu State Government is aware of the runway excursion incident involving Enugu Air Embraer E170, Flight 4264, operating from Lagos to Benin on Thursday, July 23, 2026,” the governor said.
“The government empathises with the 63 passengers and five crew members on board the aircraft over the traumatic experience and is thankful to God that no life was lost and no injuries have so far been reported.”
Governor Mbah also commended the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) for its swift response in launching an investigation into the incident, pledging the state government’s full cooperation with aviation regulators.
He said Enugu Air would work closely with the NSIB and other relevant authorities to determine the circumstances surrounding the runway excursion.
Reaffirming the government’s confidence in the airline, Mbah stressed that Enugu Air operates under strict safety protocols that exceed industry standards.
“While awaiting the outcome of the investigation, the government assures the public that the operations of Enugu Air are guided by the highest safety standards. The airline is founded on a corporate culture that places safety above profit and schedules,” he stated.
According to the governor, the airline’s quality assurance and quality control systems maintain safety thresholds that are significantly higher than the industry benchmark, contributing to the growing confidence and patronage it enjoys from passengers and aviation stakeholders.
He assured the public that Enugu Air would continue its operations while maintaining its commitment to safety, professionalism, and quality service.
Comments