Gov. Willie Obiano of Anambra has called for partnership between the state and Ethiopian Airlines in the construction of a cargo airport at Umueri in the state.

Obiano, who spoke on Saturday when he received a delegation of the Ethiopian Airlines, said the partnership would be under ‘Build, Operate and Transfer’ arrangement.

The governor described Anambra as a centre of business and commercial activities in Nigeria and promised to assist traders in the state to maximise profit.

He urged the airline to set up a ticketing office in the Onitsha main market.

Obiano also expressed willingness to partner with the airline in constructing a helipad to shuttle passengers between the state and Enugu airport.

Mr Theodross Selasia, Traffic and Sales Manager of the Ethiopian Airlines in Nigeria, said the visit was to seek partnership for mutual business flight service.

“We are on a tour of the South-East of Nigeria to actualise this objective.”

In his remark, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, urged the airline to upgrade the standard of its services to the people.

Chukwulobelu said that the new agriculture produce export initiative that the state was exploring presented a viable business opportunity for the airline. (NAN)

•Photo shows Governor Obiano.