After successful negotiations, the Nigerian government has reached an agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that will see the return of Emirates Airlines’ flight operations to Nigeria starting October 1, 2024. This agreement marks a significant milestone in the aviation relationship between the two nations, paving the way for enhanced cooperation in the sector.
Leading the charge on behalf of Nigeria, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, spearheaded a series of high-level discussions with UAE aviation authorities. The talks not only set the stage for the reintroduction of Emirates Airlines into Nigeria’s airspace but also laid the foundation for a new Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between the two countries. This updated agreement aims to foster stronger collaboration and set guidelines for their evolving partnership in the aviation industry.
Reciprocal Rights for Nigerian Airlines
A key achievement of the negotiations is the establishment of reciprocal rights, allowing Nigerian airlines to begin direct flight operations to the UAE. This development is expected to significantly enhance international connectivity between the two nations and provide more travel options for both business and leisure passengers.
Commenting on the outcome, Minister Festus Keyamo expressed optimism, stating, “We are pleased to have secured reciprocal operational rights for Nigerian airlines, which will not only deepen our bilateral ties but also strengthen the global competitiveness of Nigeria’s aviation industry. Today’s discussions reaffirm our commitment to fostering a balanced and forward-looking partnership with the UAE.”
A Win for International Connectivity
The return of Emirates Airlines to Nigeria is a result of weeks of diplomatic and technical consultations between the two governments. The Federal Government of Nigeria has remained committed to securing the best possible outcome for travelers and the aviation industry, ensuring the resumption of direct flights between the two nations.
Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer of Emirates, welcomed the development, saying, “We are excited to resume our services to Nigeria. The Lagos-Dubai route has always been popular with customers, and we hope to reconnect leisure and business travelers to Dubai and beyond, covering over 140 destinations worldwide. We thank the Nigerian government for their partnership and support in re-establishing this route.”
Trade and Cargo Expansion
In addition to passenger services, the resumption of flights will also boost trade between Nigeria and the UAE. Emirates SkyCargo, the airline’s cargo division, will offer over 300 tonnes of belly-hold cargo capacity each week on flights in and out of Lagos, further strengthening the economic ties between the two nations. This move is expected to bolster Nigeria’s status as a major economic hub in Africa, reinforcing its commercial connections with Dubai.
With the resumption of daily flights and enhanced cargo capabilities, the aviation ties between Nigeria and the UAE are set to reach new heights, offering mutual benefits for both countries in terms of trade, travel, and economic collaboration.
