Nigerian carrier ValueJet has announced the launch of two new services aimed at strengthening regional and domestic air links across West Africa.
The airline said the expansion forms part of its broader strategy to improve passenger convenience, enhance regional integration and deepen connectivity within the sub-region.
Beginning from May 18, 2026, ValueJet will commence daily flights between Owerri and Abuja. The airline said the route would provide travellers with direct access between the South-East and Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory.
According to the carrier, the new domestic service is expected to support business activities, government travel, education and tourism while improving reliable air links between both cities.
The airline explained that the daily service would also reinforce its growing domestic network and customer-focused operations across Nigeria.
Fifth Freedom Air Links
Meanwhile, ValueJet will commence operations between Accra and Banjul from May 14, 2026, under a Fifth Freedom arrangement designed to improve regional air links within West Africa.
The route will operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.
Under the Fifth Freedom traffic right, a Nigerian airline can transport passengers between two foreign countries as part of a wider international service connected to its home country.
The development is expected to improve mobility between Ghana and The Gambia while reducing the burden of multiple transit stops often faced by regional travellers.
ValueJet said the service would further stimulate tourism, trade and economic cooperation within West Africa.
In addition, the airline noted that passengers travelling on the Accra–Banjul route would enjoy more direct regional air links alongside its onboard service experience.
Speaking on the route expansion, Managing Director of ValueJet, Captain Omololu Majekodunmi, described the new operations as part of the airline’s long-term growth strategy across Africa.
Captain Majekodunmi stated that the carrier remains committed to connecting more cities while maintaining strong operational standards.
“These new routes represent another important step in our mission to make air travel more accessible and convenient for our passengers,” he said.
“We remain committed to expanding our network strategically and providing reliable flight services that meet the evolving needs of travellers within Nigeria and across the West African region.”
Industry analysts believe the expansion could further strengthen regional air links at a time when African carriers are seeking greater cooperation and intra-African connectivity.
The introduction of the Accra-Banjul service is also expected to improve route accessibility for passengers travelling within the ECOWAS region.
Over the years, ValueJet has steadily expanded its operations through network growth and customer-focused services.
The airline currently operates across several domestic and regional destinations including Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Jos, Owerri, Calabar, Kano, Cotonou, Accra and Banjul.
Meanwhile, the Owerri–Abuja route is expected to provide travellers from the South-East with faster access to the nation’s capital without relying heavily on connecting services.
Aviation stakeholders have repeatedly emphasised the importance of stronger regional air links in supporting economic integration, tourism development and trade facilitation across Africa.
The International Air Transport Association has consistently advocated improved intra-African connectivity to reduce travel barriers and support economic growth across the continent.
