The Cross River government is set to begin operations of its first commercial airline and shipping company.

Governor Ben Ayade stated this after a presentation by some potential transaction advisers for the project during an expanded state executive council meeting, AIT reports.

Ayade expressed optimism about the prospect the projects will bring to Cross River state revenue base in partnership with private investors.

Governor Ayade explained that the intention of running an airline was not only focused on making money, but the underlining philosophy is to drive traffic to Calabar, and to boost the economy and tourism potentials of the state.