In a statement released on Thursday, Emirates Airlines announced its plans to resume flight services to Nigeria, with its hub in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The airline stated that flight operations will be conducted using a Boeing 777-300ER, aiming to reconnect leisure and business travelers between Lagos and Dubai, and onwards to its extensive network of over 140 destinations.
Gratitude to Nigerian Government
Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim, expressed excitement about the resumption of services to Nigeria. He thanked the Nigerian government for their partnership and support in re-establishing the route, highlighting the significance of the Lagos-Dubai service to customers in Nigeria.
Suspension and Diplomatic Relations
Emirates Airlines had suspended its Dubai-Lagos flights in 2022 due to challenges repatriating funds from Nigeria during a diplomatic row between the two countries. The suspension was part of a broader history of flight restrictions between Nigeria and the UAE, stemming from unresolved issues surrounding the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) and subsequent visa restrictions.
Diplomatic Efforts and Positive Developments
Efforts to improve diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the UAE gained momentum in September 2023 when President Bola Tinubu met with UAE President, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in Abu Dhabi. The meeting aimed to address underlying tensions and facilitate smoother relations between the two nations.
Anticipated Resumption and Visa Status
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, recently confirmed Emirates Airlines’ indication of a definite date to resume flight operations to Nigerian airports. However, as of now, the UAE has not officially announced any changes regarding the visa ban imposed on Nigerian travelers, despite the positive developments in diplomatic engagements.
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Written By Doris Chinwe Omemgbeoji