Overland Airways, Nigeria’s longest-serving private domestic airline, has announced the commencement of flight operations to Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna, linking the Niger State capital with Lagos and Abuja. The new routes, set to launch on April 23, 2025, will enhance connectivity and boost economic activities in Niger State and its surrounding regions.
The airline will operate three weekly flights on the Minna-Lagos-Minna and Minna-Abuja-Minna routes, utilizing its state-of-the-art Embraer 175 aircraft. Departures from Lagos to Minna are scheduled for 8:00 a.m., with return flights at 3:00 p.m.. Flights from Minna to Abuja will depart at 9:30 a.m., with the return leg from Abuja to Minna at 2:00 p.m.
Speaking on the new service, Captain Edward Boyo, Chief Executive Officer and Accountable Executive of Overland Airways, emphasized the airline’s commitment to driving economic development.
“We are excited to commence flight services to Minna, connecting it with Abuja, the Federal Capital, and Lagos, the commercial hub of Nigeria. This new service will facilitate trade, tourism, and economic activities while supporting Niger State’s vision to attract direct investments and improve the livelihoods of its citizens,”_ he said.
Capt. Boyo acknowledged His Excellency, Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, for his dedication to Niger State’s development and for championing the project to enhance the state’s air travel infrastructure.
The Niger State Ministry of Transport and the New Niger Development Project (NNDP) praised the launch as a significant milestone in the state’s aviation sector.
“Bringing Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport to full operational status has been a long journey. Today, we are proud to witness its realization, with Overland Airways pioneering commercial flight operations. This marks a major step in expanding air travel connectivity for the state,” the ministry stated.
Alhaji Liman Katamba Kutigi, Chief Operating Officer of New Niger Aviation, also highlighted the economic impact of the new flights. “This partnership with Overland Airways ensures regular and reliable air services from Abuja and Lagos to Minna. We are confident this will play a key role in repositioning the state’s aviation sector and fostering economic growth,” he said.
The expansion to Minna aligns with Overland Airways’ broader strategy to enhance regional connectivity across Nigeria and West Africa, supporting business, tourism, and trade.
With this latest development, Overland Airways continues to play a pivotal role in modernizing Nigeria’s air transport network, offering passengers a seamless and efficient travel experience.