The federal government has approved international routes to New York, Dubai, and Canada for United Nigeria Airlines, as part of a push to get Nigerian carriers carrying more of the passengers flying out of the country.
Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo announced the approvals on Thursday in Abuja, during the unveiling of two new Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft the airline just acquired.
"We're giving United Nigeria Airlines about four or five routes. We're giving them New York, Canada, Dubai and some other viable destinations," Keyamo said.
Foreign airlines currently carry between 90 and 95 percent of passengers travelling from Nigeria to destinations in Europe, North America, the Middle East and other regions, according to the minister. He argued that Nigerian carriers deserve a bigger slice of that market.
"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," he said.
The route approvals come ahead of the airline's planned expansion, giving it time to build capacity for international operations.
Keyamo linked the approvals to broader government efforts to help local airlines access aircraft. He disclosed that President Bola Tinubu has approved the creation of a Nigerian aircraft leasing company, which will help domestic carriers secure planes through government-backed arrangements. The idea is to reduce the financing challenges that have historically limited local airlines' growth.
"We're giving United Nigeria Airlines about four or five routes. We're giving them New York, Canada, Dubai and some other viable destinations."
The minister said the government prefers to support privately owned Nigerian carriers rather than revive a state-owned national airline, arguing that many successful global airlines operate with minimal political interference.
The two new Boeing 737-800NG aircraft were named after the Obi of Onitsha, Nnaemeka Achebe, and renowned Nigerian novelist Chinua Achebe. The acquisition is part of the airline's fleet expansion programme.
United Nigeria Airlines recently disclosed losses of about N10 billion over three months, blaming rising operating costs and a surge in aviation fuel prices linked to disruptions in global oil supply routes. Despite the financial pressure, the airline says it remains committed to expanding.
Beyond the route approvals, Keyamo said the government is working with Abia State on the proposed Abia International Airport. The long-term plan is for United Nigeria Airlines to set up a major operational hub there when the airport is completed.
The minister also reiterated plans to turn Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu into a dedicated cargo hub for businesses across the South-east. Discussions are ongoing to facilitate direct cargo flights between China and Enugu, which would improve trade logistics for importers and exporters in the region.
Keyamo said reforms introduced over the past two and a half years are beginning to show results. He noted that the government spent considerable time engaging operators and regulators before implementing policy changes.
"We took the issues one after another and focused on creating an environment where airlines can grow sustainably," he said.
Industry stakeholders at the event highlighted improvements in aircraft financing, regulatory processes and technical training, but stressed the need for continued investment. They said expanding access to newer aircraft and strengthening local technical capacity would be critical to helping Nigerian airlines compete in regional and international markets.