Nigeria's Caliphate Airlines to launch in August with federal support

The Federal Government of Nigeria has pledged full regulatory backing for Caliphate Airlines, a commercial carrier backed by the Sokoto State Government. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo affirmed the support during a meeting in Abuja with a delegation led by Aminu Dikko, Chief of Staff to Sokoto Governor Ahmad Aliyu, and other state officials. The airline is slated for an official inauguration by President Bola Tinubu on August 18, 2026. Caliphate Airlines will commence operations with a fleet of five Embraer regional jets—three ERJ‑145LRs and two 190‑100s—with two aircraft already in Nigeria and the remainder expected before launch. Initial routes will link Sokoto, Abuja and Kano, with plans to expand domestically as demand grows. The government has committed to expedient issuance of the Airline Operator Certificate to enable timely commercial service.