Ethiopian Begins Second Lagos Flight with 147 Passengers

BY ANTHONY OMOH

Ethiopian Airlines has deepened its Lagos flight frequency expansion with the launch of a second daily Lagos–Addis Ababa service, carrying 147 passengers. The Boeing 737 Max aircraft landed at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, at exactly 7:20 p.m. and received a ceremonial water cannon salute on arrival.

The milestone flight was received by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, who led the Federal Government’s delegation at the airport. With the new frequency added, Ethiopian Airlines now operates 14 weekly services into and out of Lagos, reinforcing its leadership among foreign carriers operating in Nigeria.

Moreover, Ethiopian Airlines has strengthened its Nigerian footprint with a total of 31 weekly flights. These include seven out of Abuja, five from Kano, and another five from Enugu. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Dr. Kana praised Ethiopian Airlines for its operational consistency and strategic growth.

He stated that the government did not hesitate to approve the airline’s request for more frequencies, citing its positive track record in Nigeria. “When the airline approached us in the ministry requesting for an increase in frequency to Lagos, we did not hesitate,” he said.

“We did not hesitate because the Ethiopian airline is our airline. Ethiopian airline is Nigeria’s airline. I don’t think anybody will disagree with this.”

According to him, aviation remains a vital tool for deepening continental ties and boosting inter-African trade and tourism. “As a government, we see Nigeria as part of Ethiopia, and Ethiopia as part of Nigeria,” Dr. Kana added.

He emphasized that any future requests from Ethiopian Airlines would continue to receive full support from the Federal Government.

Additionally, Dr. Kana reaffirmed the Ministry’s vision to transform Lagos into a dominant West African aviation hub.

“Our dream is to see Lagos become a hub,” he declared. “In no distant future, this airport will serve many international carriers.”

He noted that growing connectivity, led by airlines like Ethiopian, is central to this vision.

Furthermore, Dr. Kana urged other international airlines to expand into Nigeria and utilize its numerous viable entry points.

“The Minister of Aviation will continue to give Ethiopian Airlines all the support it requires to succeed,” he affirmed. “We also welcome all other airlines. Ethiopian Airlines is challenging you. Nigeria is ready for business.”

He pointed out that international gateways such as Abuja, Enugu, Port Harcourt, and Kano are fully open and well-equipped.

Also speaking, Ms. Firiehiwot Mekonnen, Area Manager of Ethiopian Airlines in Nigeria, expressed appreciation for the support from Nigerian authorities.

She described the second Lagos frequency as a response to strong demand and rising passenger volumes.

“In 2023, over 248,000 passengers traveled between Nigeria and Ethiopia, with Lagos accounting for the largest share,” she revealed.

The additional daily service, she explained, will offer passengers improved flexibility and better connections across Ethiopian Airlines’ vast global network.

“We value our Nigerian customers and remain dedicated to providing them with world-class service and reliable regional and international links,” she added.

Ms. Mekonnen reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to long-term investment and growth within Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem.

Present at the event, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of SIFAX Group and Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO), commended the airline’s bold move.

He described the new frequency as a strategic step toward deepening regional connectivity and expanding market access for Nigerian passengers.

“I want to commend Ethiopian Airlines for this milestone and its continued faith in the Nigerian market,” said Dr. Afolabi.

He emphasized that the airline’s success is rooted in its operational discipline, strong partnerships, and dedication to service delivery.

With its current Lagos flight frequency expansion, Ethiopian Airlines continues to play a leading role in linking Nigeria to Africa and beyond.

The development also strengthens Lagos’ position as a growing hub for commercial and aviation activity on the continent.