FG Approves 4 New International Routes for United Nigeria Airlines

• The Federal Government has approved several international routes for United Nigeria Airlines, including New York, Dubai and Canada.

The Federal Government has approved a number of international routes for United Nigeria Airlines, including services to New York, Dubai and Canada, in a move aimed at expanding the airline’s global operations.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the approvals during the unveiling of two newly acquired Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft by the airline.

According to Keyamo, the decision forms part of the government’s broader strategy to empower Nigerian airlines and increase their share of international passenger traffic, which is currently dominated by foreign carriers.

“We are giving United Nigeria Airlines about four or five routes. We are giving them New York, Canada, Dubai and some other viable destinations,” the minister said.

He noted that foreign airlines currently transport between 90 and 95 per cent of passengers travelling from Nigeria to international destinations, stressing that local airlines must be supported to compete effectively in that market.

The minister also linked the route approvals to ongoing efforts by the government to improve aircraft acquisition and leasing opportunities for domestic airlines.

He revealed that President Bola Tinubu had approved plans for a Nigerian aircraft leasing company to help local carriers overcome financing challenges and expand their fleets.

The announcement came as United Nigeria Airlines unveiled two Boeing 737-800NG aircraft named after renowned novelist Chinua Achebe and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe.

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Keyamo further disclosed that the government is collaborating with the Abia State Government on the proposed Abia International Airport project, with plans for United Nigeria Airlines to establish a major operational hub there upon completion.

He also reiterated efforts to transform the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu into a cargo hub, including discussions on direct cargo flights between China and Enugu to improve trade logistics in the South-East region.

Despite challenges facing the aviation industry, stakeholders expressed optimism that ongoing reforms, improved financing opportunities and infrastructure investments will help Nigerian airlines compete more effectively on regional and international routes.