Air Algérie has inaugurated its first flight from the Algerian capital, Algiers to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja on Sunday, April 6, 2025.
The flight was received by Ibrahim Abubakar Kana , Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation, who represented the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo along with other key officials, including Mezoued Hosine, Algerian Ambassador to Nigeria, and Alhaji Gambo Aboki, Regional General Manager (North), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
Air Algérie will operate direct flights to Abuja twice weekly as the service will operate with a stopover in Douala, Cameroon, utilizing the fifth freedom of the air allowing Air Algérie to transport passengers between Douala and Abuja in addition to flights originating from Algiers.
The new route marks a significant step in Air Algérie’s strategy to expand its network across Africa and enhance bilateral ties between Algeria and Nigeria.
Hosine highlighted the strategic importance of the route, calling it a milestone in the long-standing economic partnership between the two nations, which includes joint projects like the Trans-Saharan pipeline.
“Our compatriots were often forced to travel thousands of kilometres outside the continent to find a connecting flight to Abuja. This new direct flight will open a myriad of economic opportunities for both destinations.
“The business communities and companies will no longer have any reason not to come to Nigeria or Algeria to do business and also to invest. This opens also the way to strengthen exchanges in the fields of tourism and culture. It will certainly give impetus to human and inter-university exchanges between our two countries.
“With this new flag, our countries are closer than ever. Algeria is now less than five hours from Abuja.This launch is the result of renewed discussions over the past year. We deeply appreciate the support from Nigerian authorities in making this a reality.”
Kana thanked Air Algérie’s partners and called for excellent passenger service, emphasizing the Ministry’s full support.
“We want you not just in Abuja, but in Kano and Lagos as well.Our business communities now have direct access to new markets for trade and investment.This route also opens doors for tourism, cultural exchange, and academic collaboration between our countries.”
Air Algérie CEO, Hamza Benhamouda praised the initiative, expressing optimism that the route would stimulate economic growth and further strengthen the Algeria-Nigeria relationship.
