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Emirates Flights to Nigeria May Resume in June, Says FG

The United Arab Emirates, UAE, has concluded plans to resume flights with Nigeria before Summer.

The Federal Government has disclosed that United Arab Emirates, UAE, airline, Emirates, might resume flight operations to Nigeria in June.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, gave the hint when he appeared on Arise TV’s morning show on Monday.

The prospect of Emirates resuming flights to Nigeria holds significant implications for both countries, particularly in terms of economic ties, tourism, and the facilitation of essential travel. Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous nation and a key economic player on the continent, stands to benefit from the reinstatement of air services with a global hub like Dubai. Emirates, renowned for its extensive network and world-class services, offers Nigerian travelers seamless connections to destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and beyond. The resumption of Emirates flights would not only enhance travel options for Nigerian passengers but also stimulate trade, investment, and tourism between Nigeria and the UAE.

Keyamo disclosed that he had received a letter from the Emirates confirming that all issues between it and Nigeria had been addressed.

He said: “Emirates flight resumption is almost happening. I just received a letter from Emirates. The letter is on my phone now. They have gone through all the gamut, and they are ready to come back. They will announce the date because, to restart a route, they have to get an aircraft for that route.

“I am announcing to Nigerians for the first time; that I just received a letter from Emirates now. The letter is with me. I have a hard copy thanking you for all the efforts we made. Mr. President was the showman here. He was the one who pushed for it.

“He made my job easy because he went there, and had a diplomatic shuttle to resolve all the issues. That was why I said the last announcement was hasty and not fake news. They will announce the date for their next flight. We have received a letter confirming that all the issues have been resolved and that we are prepared to start coming back. It may be before June.”

In October 2022, the UAE banned nationals of about 20 African countries from entering its borders.

Affected countries include Uganda, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Cameroon, Nigeria, Liberia, Burundi, the Republic of Guinea, Gambia, Togo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Benin, Ivory Coast, the Congo, Rwanda, Burkina Faso, Guinea Bissau, Comoros, and the Dominican Republic.

In a notice issued to trade partners, including travel agents, Emirati authorities demanded that all applications be rejected.

“Any applications from the above-mentioned countries will be sent back or cancelled,” said the notice. Since the ban, the UAE and Nigeria have been locked in a diplomatic row over issues involving flight allocations and travel restrictions.

Keyamo’s revelation regarding the potential resumption of Emirates flights is a testament to the ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving outstanding issues between the two countries. For several months, Nigeria and Emirates have been embroiled in a dispute stemming from travel restrictions imposed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These restrictions, which included the suspension of Emirates flights to Nigeria, were implemented to mitigate the spread of the virus and safeguard public health. However, the prolonged suspension of flights has had adverse effects on travelers, businesses, and the aviation industry, underscoring the need for constructive dialogue and cooperation to find mutually acceptable solutions.

The announcement that Emirates may resume flight operations to Nigeria in June signals a positive step forward in the normalization of air travel between the two countries. It reflects the commitment of both parties to resolving outstanding issues and restoring air connectivity in a manner that prioritizes safety, security, and adherence to regulatory requirements. Keyamo’s disclosure that he had received a letter from Emirates confirming the resolution of all issues further underscores the progress made in addressing the concerns that led to the suspension of flights. This development instills confidence among stakeholders and underscores the potential for fruitful collaboration in the aviation sector.

The resumption of Emirates flights to Nigeria would undoubtedly be welcomed by a wide range of stakeholders, including passengers, travel agents, tour operators, and businesses involved in international trade. Nigerian travelers, in particular, have eagerly anticipated the return of Emirates’ renowned services, which offer unparalleled comfort, convenience, and connectivity. Moreover, the restoration of air links between Nigeria and Dubai holds significant economic implications, given Dubai’s status as a global commercial hub and Nigeria’s position as an emerging market with vast potential for trade and investment.

Looking ahead, the potential resumption of Emirates flights to Nigeria in June holds promise for the revitalization of air travel and the reinvigoration of bilateral ties between the two countries. As preparations are underway to facilitate a smooth and seamless return to operations, stakeholders are encouraged by the prospect of renewed opportunities for travel, trade, and cultural exchange. Keyamo’s announcement serves as a beacon of hope for all those eager to see the skies once again filled with the iconic aircraft of Emirates, connecting Nigeria to the world and opening new horizons of possibility for generations to come.

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