Chief Executive Officer and founder of Auxano Aviation, Ehimenmen Odia, has called for increased infrastructure investment and a supportive policy environment to fully harness the economic potential of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Speaking to journalists during the launch of Auxano Aviation’s new office in Benin City, located within the Edo State airport premises, Odia highlighted the transformative impact of general aviation services on the state’s economy.
He noted that with proper support, Edo State could become a regional hub for aviation, emphasizing the state’s potential to produce homegrown pilots and aircraft engineers through Auxano’s upcoming training programs.
The Chief Executive Officer and founder of Auxano Aviation, commended Governor Monday Okpeholo for fostering an enabling environment and supporting aviation development in the state.
He said the initiative would drive job creation, enhance tourism, and open up new economic opportunities.
“One of our goals is to provide the infrastructure that allows everyday professionals—doctors, lawyers, businesspeople—to fly themselves to cities like Lagos or Asaba and return the same day,” he said. “Aviation remains largely untapped in Nigeria, but it holds the key to unlocking Edo’s full economic capacity.”
Referencing Ososo Hills, a local tourist destination, Odia added, “Before now, my friends couldn’t visit. But with our aircraft, we can fly there easily. We’re also investing in training youth to acquire aviation skills.”
He stressed the importance of starting with basic aircraft training before moving to larger jets. “It’s like education—you can’t start with a university if you don’t build the primary schools. Every pilot begins with small planes. That’s the global standard.”
Odia expressed appreciation to the Edo State government for allocating 12 acres of land for hangar construction, calling the gesture a significant milestone for aviation in the region.
Vice President of Benin Aero Club, Morrison Okunbo, lauded Odia’s vision, describing Auxano as the pioneer of the first privately funded general aviation service in West Africa.
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The event drew several high-ranking officials, including the Director-General of the Edo State Migration Agency, Lucky Agazuma; Managing Director of the Edo State Procurement Agency, Deborah Okunbo; Executive Chairman of the Edo State Senior Secondary School Board, Dr. Maureen Ekhoragbon; and President of Auxano Club, Benin, Reverend Craig Omorodion.
