Ethiopian Airlines Becomes Nigeria’s Leading International Carrier with 34 Weekly Flights
Story: written by Myra October 30,2025
Ethiopian Airlines has officially become Nigeria’s largest international carrier, operating more than 34 passenger flights weekly across four major cities — Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Enugu — following the launch of additional Abuja–Addis Ababa services.
The expansion strengthens the airline’s role in connecting Nigerian travellers to over 150 global destinations spanning five continents, offering smoother connections through its Addis Ababa hub.
During the inauguration ceremony in Abuja on Wednesday, Firiehewot Mekonnen, Ethiopian Airlines’ Area Manager for Nigeria, described the milestone as a reflection of “growth, progress, and enduring partnership” between Nigeria and Ethiopia.
“This isn’t just about adding a flight; it’s about deepening our bond with Nigeria,” she said. “Ethiopian Airlines has flown alongside Nigeria for 65 years, beginning operations in Lagos shortly after independence in 1960. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to the Nigerian people.”
According to Mekonnen, the airline now operates 10 weekly flights to Abuja (seven midday and three evening), 14 weekly flights to Lagos, seven to Kano, and three to Enugu, bringing its total to 34 weekly connections — the highest by any international airline in Nigeria.
The new evening service, Flight ET957, departs Abuja at 10:00 p.m. and arrives in Addis Ababa at 5:00 a.m., enabling quicker links to major cities including Dubai, Tel Aviv, São Paulo, Johannesburg, and Nairobi.
Mekonnen also highlighted the airline’s role in supporting Nigeria’s economic and tourism growth, especially as Abuja continues to emerge as a regional hub for business, diplomacy, and conferences.
“Our modern fleet — including Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 787 Dreamliners — ensures passengers enjoy world-class comfort, reliability, and safety,” she added.
Ethiopian Airlines reaffirmed its long-standing relationship with Nigeria, describing it as a partnership built on trust, shared vision, and mutual growth.
