Ethiopian Airlines is expanding its operations in Nigeria with increased flight frequencies across key routes and the introduction of a new service to Port Harcourt, taking its total weekly flights in the country to 53.
As part of the expansion, the airline has raised its Lagos operations to 21 weekly flights, providing up to three daily services, while frequencies to Kano have increased by four to 11 flights per week.
Ethiopian Airlines will also commence four weekly flights to Port Harcourt, complementing its existing services to Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Enugu. The new Port Harcourt operation will provide the South-South region with enhanced access to the airline’s extensive international network through its Addis Ababa hub.
Speaking on the expansion, Ethiopian Airlines General Manager in Nigeria, Firiehiwot Mekonnen, said the increased capacity demonstrates the airline’s confidence in Nigeria’s aviation market and its broader economic potential.
“Nigeria remains a very important market for Ethiopian Airlines. By increasing our frequencies and adding Port Harcourt, we are giving passengers more flexibility, greater seat availability, better connectivity, and access to more attractive and competitive fares,” Mekonnen said.
She noted that the expansion would extend beyond improved passenger convenience, with increased air connectivity expected to support tourism, trade, investment and employment while creating additional opportunities for local businesses.
“Every additional flight creates economic activity. It means more business for Nigerian ground handling companies, airports, travel agencies, hotels, transport providers, catering, and other local service providers, while also creating direct and indirect employment opportunities,” she said.
Mekonnen also highlighted the airline’s role in supporting inbound tourism by using its global network to connect international travellers to Nigeria.
“Our objective is not only to connect Nigerians to the world, but also to bring more of the world to Nigeria. Better air connectivity can support tourism, facilitate trade and investment, and contribute to Nigeria’s wider economic growth,” she said.
The Port Harcourt service is expected to particularly strengthen international connectivity for businesses and travellers in the South-South region, giving them easier access to destinations across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas through Addis Ababa.
Mekonnen expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, airport authorities and other stakeholders for their continued support.
She said Ethiopian Airlines remained committed to deepening its presence in Nigeria and ensuring that its growth delivers wider economic value.
“As Ethiopian Airlines grows in Nigeria, we want our growth to create value for Nigeria — through better connectivity, more tourism, more business opportunities, and more jobs. We remain committed to being a long-term aviation partner to the country,” she said.
