By Enyichukwu Enemanna
The Federal Government of Nigeria says the launch of Air Algérie’s inaugural direct flight service from Algiers to Abuja will boost diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and Algeria, located in North Africa.
The direct flight service is expected to commence operations on 6 April 2025, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Wednesday.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pleased to announce the commencement of Air Algérie’s inaugural direct flight service from Algiers to Abuja, scheduled for 6 April 2025,” the ministry said in a statement signed by the Acting Spokesperson for the Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa.
The new route, which is the result of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between the two countries, will be operated by the national carrier, Air Algérie, using a Boeing 737 aircraft, the statement noted.
Among other benefits, the new service is expected to enhance connectivity, encourage tourism, and facilitate trade and investment between the two African countries.
“This historic development marks a significant milestone in the growing diplomatic and economic relations between Nigeria and Algeria.
“It is pertinent to state that this is the implementation of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between both countries, which culminated in this successful venture,” the statement further added.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry commended the efforts of the Nigerian Embassy in Algiers for its key role in making the direct flight service a reality.
To be conveyed to Abuja by the inaugural flight are the Chargé d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy in Algiers, Nigerian community leaders, and representatives from the Algerian government.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant aviation authorities, extends its warm congratulations to Air Algérie and assures all necessary support to ensure the success and sustainability of this new service.
“We believe this initiative will further strengthen the longstanding friendship between Nigeria and Algeria while opening new opportunities for mutual growth.
“The affordable fare structure and Algeria’s proximity to Europe would also provide Nigerians with a convenient gateway to Europe, thereby enhancing Nigeria’s position as a regional hub for business, tourism, and transit,” the ministry stated.
