Ethiopian Airlines’ Enduring Service to Nigeria: Building a Legacy of Trust, Loyalty

For a nation whose flag carrier, Nigeria Airways, folded over two decades ago, Ethiopian Airlines has become more than just an international operator – it is a trusted partner, a lifeline, and in the words of Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, “Nigeria’s own airline.”

Ethiopian Airlines has deepened its bond with Nigeria by introducing a second daily frequency into Lagos, bringing its total weekly operations in Nigeria to an impressive 31 flights, including 14 to and from Lagos, and others spread across Abuja, Kano, and Enugu.

The move not only affirms its position as one of the most dominant international carriers in the Nigerian market but also celebrates an enduring legacy of 65 years of uninterrupted operations – a milestone the airline plans to mark in November 2025.

A Flight Path Carved in Loyalty

Speaking to journalists in Lagos, Firiehiwot Mekonnen, the Area Manager for Ethiopian Airlines in Nigeria, reflected on the carrier’s unique and long-standing commitment.

“We have always been here through thick and thin, through good and bad. Even when other airlines stayed away, we sacrificed to stand side by side with Nigeria,” Mekonnen said. “We were the only international airline that flew into Kaduna during the Abuja Airport closure.”

Indeed, Ethiopian’s continued service throughout crises – most notably the COVID-19 pandemic – set it apart. Alongside Air Peace, the airline ensured connectivity, repatriated stranded citizens, and delivered critical medical supplies during lockdowns, earning national admiration and solidifying its role in Nigeria’s aviation and humanitarian landscapes.

From Dreamliner to MAX: The Best for Nigeria

Ethiopian Airlines has maintained its leadership in African aviation by continuously updating its fleet with cutting-edge aircraft. It was the first African airline to introduce the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the first to fly the Airbus A350, and more recently, the first to bring the A350-1000 to Africa – specifically to Nigeria.

Now, its choice of the Boeing 737 MAX for the new Lagos frequency may raise eyebrows, especially given the aircraft’s troubled past. Yet, Ethiopian has boldly reaffirmed its confidence in the MAX after extensive global recertification, pilot retraining, and rigorous inspections.

“With this flight, Ethiopian Airlines is further dedicating itself to serving Nigerians with more flexibility and affordable flight options,” Mekonnen affirmed.

Meeting Growing Demand with Flexible Options

With the launch of its second daily flight into Lagos, passengers can now choose from early morning, midday, and evening departures, making Ethiopian Airlines the most flexible option in the market.

The increased frequency also enhances connectivity to 66 African cities, Asia, the Middle East, India, and over 150 global destinations – all within 12 hours of flight time, eliminating long layovers.

“In 2023 alone, over 248,000 passengers travelled between Nigeria and Ethiopia, with Lagos accounting for the largest share,” Mekonnen revealed. “The additional daily service will offer passengers improved flexibility and better connections across Ethiopian Airlines’ vast global network.”

A Partner in Nigeria’s Economic Ambitions

Dr. Ibrahim Kana, speaking at the welcoming ceremony for the B737 MAX in Lagos, described the development as a sign of Nigeria’s openness to international business and aviation excellence.

“When the airline approached us in the ministry requesting an increase in frequency to Lagos, we did not hesitate,” he said. “The Ethiopian airline is our airline. Ethiopian airline is Nigeria’s airline. I don’t think anybody will disagree with this.”

Dr. Kana also paid glowing tribute to Ethiopian’s critical role during the Abuja runway rehabilitation in 2016 and its steadfast support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We see Ethiopian Airlines as part of Nigeria, and we will grant them approval anytime they ask for approval on any route. We can only ask for more.”

He reiterated the ministry’s goal to transform Lagos into a true aviation hub for Africa and called on other global carriers to follow Ethiopian’s example by deepening engagement with Nigeria.

“Nigeria is ready for business. Ethiopian Airlines is challenging you,” he declared.

Tourism on the Horizon

As part of its vision to stimulate Nigeria’s growing travel and tourism sector, Ethiopian Airlines is also aligning with local festivals and tourism events.

Mekonnen announced plans to support inbound and outbound tourism in Nigeria, leveraging events like Carnival Calabar, Ojude Oba, Durbar Festival, and Detty December.

“We are offering to support tourism in Nigeria in the coming months,” she noted, affirming the airline’s commitment to not just transporting Nigerians abroad but also bringing the world to Nigeria.

The B737 MAX that launched the second Lagos frequency touched down at Murtala Muhammed International Airport to a ceremonial water cannon salute, a traditional gesture for inaugural or milestone flights.

The aircraft departed for Addis Ababa with a full load of 147 passengers in Economy and 8 in Business Class, while it arrived in Lagos with 114 Economy passengers and one in Business Class.

These figures reflect what Mekonnen proudly described as “Nigerians’ love and support” for the airline.

Ethiopian Airlines’ story in Nigeria is not merely about flights and frequencies. It is a tale of unwavering commitment, mutual respect, and shared growth.

From historic milestones and modern aircraft to pandemic-era heroism and tourism promotion, the airline continues to prove that its heart beats with the rhythm of Nigeria’s progress.