Minister Festus Keyamo, overseeing Aviation and Aerospace Development, revealed that Emirates Airlines has confirmed a set date for the resumption of flights to Nigerian airports.
In a recent tweet, Keyamo shared that he met with UAE Ambassador Salem Saeed Al-Shamsi in Abuja, where he received correspondence from Emirates, indicating the scheduled resumption.
“This week, I visited the UAE Ambassador in Nigeria, receiving assurance from Emirates Airlines regarding their return to Nigerian skies. Expect a formal announcement from Emirates Airlines soon,” Keyamo stated.
This isn’t the first time the minister has addressed Emirates’ flight resumption. In November 2023, he hinted at an imminent announcement.
The relationship between Nigeria and the UAE has been strained due to unresolved issues surrounding the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA), leading to flight restrictions and visa controversies. Emirates suspended flights in 2022 over fund repatriation challenges.
In September 2023, President Bola Tinubu’s meeting with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan sparked rumors of visa bans being lifted for Nigerians, though this was later clarified by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.