Speaking to journalists during the weekend launch event, Executive Officer and founder Ehimenmen Odia underscored the vast but underdeveloped economic potential of Nigeria’s aviation sector. He argued that with the right infrastructure and a supportive policy environment, the industry could become a key driver of jobs, tourism, and investment.
Odia praised Edo State Governor Monday Okpeholo for fostering an enabling environment for aviation development in the state. He expressed optimism that Edo would soon become a hub for aviation activities—not only by improving connectivity but also by training the next generation of pilots and aircraft engineers through Auxano’s planned programmes.
“Part of our vision is to develop infrastructure and introduce people to flying their planes—a scenario where doctors, lawyers, and businesspeople can fly to Asaba or Lagos and return the same day,” he said. “Aviation is an untapped sector, and we believe it can transform Edo State.”
He explained that expanding general aviation would improve service delivery and unlock opportunities for tourism, commerce, and professional training.
“The economic potential in the aviation sector cannot be overemphasised if proper infrastructure and the enabling environment are provided and harnessed by stakeholders,” Odia added.
Highlighting Edo’s natural attractions, Odia pointed to Ososo Hills as an example of sites that could become more accessible with short-hop flights.
“I’ve told my friends about it, but they couldn’t visit. Now, with Auxano Aircraft, we can fly there. Tourists can explore our sites, and we’re working on training young people to build skills in aviation,” he said.
He also compared the approach to aviation training to the structure of education.
“Everyone wants big jets, but it’s like building universities without focusing on primary schools. Every pilot starts by flying small planes. That’s the global standard,” he explained.
As part of its expansion plans, Auxano Aviation has secured 12 acres of land from the Edo State government to build hangars and related infrastructure. “This is a wonderful day,” Odia said in appreciation.
The inauguration was attended by several senior government officials and stakeholders, including the Vice President of the Benin Aero Club, Morrison Okunbo, who commended Auxano’s pioneering role in launching what he described as the first privately funded general aviation service in West Africa.
Other dignitaries present included the Director-General of Edo State Migration Agency, Lucky Agazuma; Managing Director of Edo State Procurement Agency, Deborah Okunbo; Executive Chairman of Edo State Senior Secondary School Board, Dr. Maureen Ekhoragbon; and President of Auxano Club, Benin, Reverend Craig Omorodion, among others.
Auxano Aviation’s leadership says it hopes to not only make flying more accessible within Nigeria but also to cultivate a new generation of aviation professionals equipped with the skills to sustain the sector’s long-term growth.