Ethiopian Airlines has expanded its operations in Nigeria, increasing flight frequencies and introducing a new service to Port Harcourt as part of efforts to strengthen air connectivity.
The airline has raised its Lagos operations to 21 weekly flights, offering up to three daily services, while flights to Kano have increased by four to 11 weekly services.
Ethiopian Airlines will also commence four weekly flights to Port Harcourt, adding to its existing operations in Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Enugu. With the new Port Harcourt service, the airline will operate 53 weekly flights to Nigeria.
Firiehiwot Mekonnen, General Manager of Ethiopian Airlines in Nigeria, said the increased capacity reflects the airline’s confidence in the Nigerian aviation market and the country’s broader economic potential.
“Nigeria remains a very important market for Ethiopian Airlines. By increasing our frequencies and adding Port Harcourt, we are giving passengers more flexibility, greater seat availability, better connectivity, and access to more attractive and competitive fares,” Mekonnen said.
She said the expansion would also support tourism, trade, investment and employment while creating additional opportunities for local businesses and service providers.
“Every additional flight creates economic activity. It means more business for Nigerian ground handling companies, airports, travel agencies, hotels, transport providers, catering, and other local service providers, while also creating direct and indirect employment opportunities,” she explained.
Mekonnen also highlighted the airline’s role in promoting inbound tourism by using its global network to connect international travellers with Nigeria.
“Our objective is not only to connect Nigerians to the world, but also to bring more of the world to Nigeria. Better air connectivity can support tourism, facilitate trade and investment, and contribute to Nigeria’s wider economic growth.”
She thanked the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, airport authorities and other stakeholders for their continued support.
