ABUJA, NIGERIA
In a move set to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance regional air travel, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially granted Air Tanzania the permit to operate direct flights between Tanzania and Nigeria. This development was confirmed by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and has been hailed as a strategic step towards boosting economic and cultural exchanges between the two African nations.
The approval allows Air Tanzania to launch non-stop services connecting major Nigerian airports with Tanzanian cities, opening new avenues for trade, tourism, and business travel. Industry sources monitored , Aviation Desk indicate that the airline’s entry into the Nigerian market aligns with broader continental integration efforts under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Officials from the Ministry of Aviation disclosed that the permit was issued after thorough evaluations of Air Tanzania’s safety standards, fleet capacity, and operational readiness, ensuring compliance with Nigeria’s aviation regulations. The direct flights are expected to reduce travel time significantly for passengers, compared to previous itineraries requiring layovers in third countries.
This development comes at a time when Nigeria is actively pursuing expanded air service agreements with African carriers to improve connectivity, stimulate tourism, and encourage intra-African business partnerships. Aviation experts suggest that Air Tanzania’s direct access to Nigeria’s bustling airspace could invigorate market competition, potentially leading to more affordable fares and enhanced service quality.
Stakeholders in the tourism and trade sectors have welcomed the move, noting the potential for increased visitor numbers and smoother cargo movement between the two countries. Furthermore, Nigerian expatriates and Tanzanian nationals residing in both countries are expected to benefit from greater travel convenience.
As preparations commence for the launch of these direct routes, both governments have expressed optimism that this cooperation will serve as a catalyst for deeper diplomatic and economic relations, further anchoring Nigeria and Tanzania as pivotal players in Africa’s emerging interconnected marketplace.
