The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has assured Algeria’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mezoued Hosine, that efforts are underway to fast-track the necessary approvals for the commencement of air services linking Algeria, Abuja, and Douala.
During a meeting in Abuja, Ambassador Hosine emphasized Algeria’s commitment to activating this new air route under the Bilateral Air Service Agreement between both nations.
He requested Keyamo’s intervention in ensuring that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority expedites the required paperwork to facilitate the launch, which is scheduled to begin operations on April 6, 2024.
Responding to the request, Keyamo welcomed the initiative, commending Algeria’s efforts to strengthen aviation cooperation with Nigeria.
He assured Hosine that the Ministry would accelerate all necessary processes to ensure the seamless implementation of the agreement.
A statement released by Keyamo’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood, highlighted the government’s dedication to enhancing air travel accessibility and solidifying Nigeria’s status as a key aviation hub in Africa.
Quoting Keyamo, the statement read, “This development aligns with our broader vision to enhance Nigeria’s aviation connectivity with key international destinations. We will work closely with relevant agencies, particularly the NCAA, to ensure all required formalities are completed as swiftly as possible. This is an opportunity we have been waiting for. If we have to go to Cameroon, a neighboring country that is less than an hour’s flight away, we have to fly to Togo first, possibly sleep over before reaching Cameroon. This is a welcome development.”
With Nigeria’s commitment to fostering stronger bilateral cooperation in the aviation sector, the proposed air service is expected to improve regional connectivity and provide travelers with more efficient flight options.
