Nigeria’s aviation relationship with the United Arab Emirates has advanced following meetings in Abu Dhabi between the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the leadership of Etihad Airways. The discussions covered bilateral aviation relations and Nigeria’s position in the global aviation industry.
The engagements confirmed the final steps towards Etihad Airways’ return to Nigeria, with daily Abu Dhabi to Lagos services scheduled to commence on 18 March 2027. The two sides also discussed a broader partnership covering air connectivity, aviation investment, technical cooperation, professional training, technology and air cargo development.
As part of the visit, Keyamo toured Etihad Aviation Training, where he examined opportunities for knowledge transfer, professional development and capacity building for Nigeria’s aviation workforce.
The Minister also visited Zayed International Airport, where the programme covered airport operations, passenger experience, technology and infrastructure development, areas Nigeria is addressing as it modernises its own aviation infrastructure and service delivery.
The Federal Government presents the engagements as part of its approach to building an aviation sector that is globally connected, investment-driven and technology-enabled. Beyond the restoration of the airline route, the areas under discussion between the two countries cover connectivity, investment, skills development, tourism, trade and wider economic cooperation.
