Ethiopian Airlines has expanded its footprint in Nigeria with the launch of a second frequency to Abuja, underscoring its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing regional connectivity across Africa.
The new evening service, which began on October 28, 2025, adds three additional weekly flights to the airline’s existing daily midday operation from Abuja to Addis Ababa. The flight, ET957, departs Abuja at 10:00 p.m. and arrives in Addis Ababa at 5:00 a.m., offering seamless onward connections to destinations across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and South America.
Speaking at the launch ceremony in Abuja, Ethiopian Airlines’ Area Manager for Nigeria, Mrs. Firiehewot Mekonnen, described the new route as a “historic milestone” that reflects the airline’s enduring partnership with Nigeria.
“For me, this moment is deeply personal,” she said. “My professional journey with Ethiopian Airlines in Nigeria began in Abuja many years ago. To return now to inaugurate this new service is both nostalgic and fulfilling — a reflection of growth, progress, and enduring friendship.”
Recalling the airline’s six-decade relationship with Nigeria, Mekonnen noted that Ethiopian Airlines was among the first international carriers to begin operations in the country shortly after independence in 1960. Since then, the airline has expanded its network to Lagos, Abuja, Enugu, and Kano, connecting millions of Nigerian travelers to over 150 global destinations through its Addis Ababa hub.
“With this addition, Ethiopian Airlines now operates 34 weekly flights between Nigeria and Ethiopia — the highest by any foreign carrier,” Mekonnen said. “Our partnership with Nigeria has always been built on mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision for growth. We love Nigeria, and Nigerians have always loved Ethiopian Airlines.”
She added that Abuja’s growing status as a hub for meetings, conferences, and diplomacy makes the city a strategic center for African and global business. “With this new frequency, we aim to make Abuja a preferred gateway for global business, tourism, and diplomacy — truly positioning it as the Conference Capital of Africa,” she said.
Expressing gratitude to the Nigerian government, the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, and travel partners for their support, Mekonnen reaffirmed Ethiopian Airlines’ long-term commitment to the Nigerian market.
“Our expansion in Nigeria reflects not just commercial success, but our confidence in the Nigerian economy, its people, and its future. Together, we will continue to strengthen this partnership, connecting Africa, connecting the world, and connecting hearts,” she concluded.
