FG approves New York, Dubai, Canada routes for United Nigeria Airlines — Keyamo

The Nigerian federal government has granted approval for United Nigeria Airlines to operate international routes, including services to New York, Dubai, and Canada. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster domestic carriers and increase their participation in international passenger traffic, which is currently heavily dominated by foreign airlines.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the approvals on Thursday during the unveiling of two new Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft by the airline. He stated that Nigerian airlines handle only a small percentage of international passengers departing the country, with foreign carriers transporting between 90% and 95% of travelers to Europe, North America, and the Middle East.

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We are giving United Nigeria Airlines about four or five routes. We are giving them New York, Canada, Dubai and some other viable destinations.

"That market belongs to Nigeria as much as it belongs to any foreign airline. Our carriers must be empowered to participate meaningfully in that space," Keyamo emphasized. The approvals are intended to enable United Nigeria Airlines to build capacity and prepare for future international operations.

The government's aviation policy focuses on removing barriers for domestic operators and facilitating aircraft acquisition. President Bola Tinubu has also approved the establishment of a Nigerian aircraft leasing company to assist local carriers with financing challenges. The administration prefers supporting privately owned airlines over reviving a state-owned national carrier, citing the efficiency of commercial structures in minimizing political interference.

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That market belongs to Nigeria as much as it belongs to any foreign airline. Our carriers must be empowered to participate meaningfully in that space.