Gov Lalong inaugurates Jos – Abuja flight

By Moses Mark

Plateau State Governor Simon Lalong on Monday flagged off the inaugural flight from Abuja to Jos operated by Max Air.

Governor Lalong along with his wife Regina Lalong , Senator Hezekiah Dimka, Minister of Women Affairs Paullen Tallen, Executive Secretary Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission Rev. Yakubu Pam and other members of the National Assembly from Plateau State joined the inaugural flight which departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja at about 5:30pm.

The flight landed at the Yakubu Gowon Airport Jos around 6:00pm to a rousing welcome by a large crowd of Plateau State citizens. At the airport was Deputy Governor of Plateau State Prof. Sonni Tyoden, Deputy Speaker House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Idris Maje, Speaker Plateau State House of Assembly Nuhu Abok Ayuba among other top Government officials.

Governor Lalong while speaking shortly after arrival said the flight connecting Plateau State with the nation’s capital Abuja will open up business opportunities in the State and boost tourism and other activities.

He said the State has continued to witness influx of people since the return of peace with many yearning for air transportation to cut travel time by road. He said with the new development, many citizens of the State and visitors will easily shuttle between Abuja and Jos in 25 minutes.

He assured air travellers that security measures have been taken to ensure safety of passengers.

Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives Idris Maje and Minister of Women Affairs Paullen Tallen commended the efforts of the Governor in ensuring that this historic achievement is recorded.

Our correspondent reports that the flight operates Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.