Ethiopian Airlines to Expand Operations in Abuja

 

By Oshuniran Sheriff Ola 

 Ethiopian Airlines has announced plans to expand its operations in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, as part of a broader push to strengthen its footprint across Africa.

 The airline, which currently operates multiple routes across Nigeria, said the Abuja expansion would mirror its recent growth in Lagos, where it launched a second daily service.

 According to the management, the move is designed to improve connectivity, support Nigeria’s tourism sector, and enhance bilateral economic ties. Speaking on the development, the airline highlighted that Abuja remains a strategic hub in West Africa, given its central location and growing demand for international travel. 

The planned expansion is expected to include more frequent flights and larger aircraft deployment on key routes. Beyond connectivity, Ethiopian Airlines said it aims to contribute to Nigeria’s tourism and cultural promotion. The carrier noted that increased flights would give international travelers easier access to major cultural festivals such as Carnival Calabar, Ojude Oba, Durbar, and Detty December celebrations, thereby boosting both inbound and outbound tourism. 

 The expansion aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ long-term “Vision 2035” strategy, which seeks to nearly double its fleet from 140 to over 270 aircraft, grow its international destinations from 133 to more than 200, and increase cargo capacity significantly. Industry analysts say this strategy positions the airline to become one of the world’s top 20 aviation groups, with Nigeria serving as a major growth market. Ethiopian Airlines has been flying into Nigeria since 1960 and currently operates in multiple cities, including Lagos, Kano, Enugu, and Abuja. The planned operational boost in Abuja underscores its commitment to maintaining strong commercial and cultural ties with Africa’s most populous nation.