Tanzania is actively exploring ways to establish direct flights to Nigeria, marking a significant step toward strengthening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between the two African nations.
This forward-looking move was brought to the table during a meeting held on Tuesday, April 9, in Abuja. Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, hosted a delegation from the Tanzanian High Commission. The team was led by Mrs. Judica Elfadhili Nagunwa, who serves as the Head of Chancery.
During their discussion, Mrs. Nagunwa made it clear that Tanzania is not just interested in words — they are ready to act. She explained that the Tanzanian government is fully behind efforts to deepen its relationship with Nigeria and that Air Tanzania is eager to launch direct flights connecting the two countries.
According to her, opening up a direct air route between Tanzania and Nigeria would bring a range of benefits. She highlighted trade, tourism, and stronger people-to-people connections as the key areas expected to grow once the flights begin.
“We believe that launching direct flights will significantly boost trade, tourism, and people-to-people connections between our countries,” Mrs. Nagunwa said. “Tanzania is fully committed to working with the Nigerian government and its aviation authorities to make this a reality.”
On Nigeria’s side, Minister Keyamo welcomed the idea with open arms. He pointed out that this kind of collaboration fits perfectly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places a strong emphasis on expanding Nigeria’s aviation sector and promoting deeper partnerships within the African continent.
“This initiative supports our broader goals under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Keyamo said. “Nigeria is open to partnerships that strengthen aviation ties across the continent. We will work closely with our Tanzanian counterparts to ensure all regulatory and bilateral frameworks are followed for a seamless process.”
Both countries agreed to keep the conversation going and to encourage continuous collaboration between their aviation authorities. The goal is to sort out all approvals and logistics as quickly and efficiently as possible.
If this plan moves forward successfully, travelers could soon enjoy a more direct and convenient link between East and West Africa — a development that could redefine business travel, tourism and cross-border cooperation across the region.
