FG Approves New York, Canada, Dubai Routes For United Nigeria Airlines

The Federal Government has approved major international routes for United Nigeria Airlines, including New York, Canada and Dubai, as part of a wider push to strengthen privately owned Nigerian carriers.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo disclosed the approvals during the unveiling of two Boeing 737-800 aircraft acquired by United Nigeria Airlines.

Reports by Arise News, THISDAYLIVE and The Sun quoted Keyamo as saying the government was giving United Nigeria Airlines “fruitful reciprocal routes,” including New York, Canada and Dubai, while the airline works toward securing the equipment needed to operate them.

The minister said the Tinubu administration’s aviation policy is focused on supporting domestic operators rather than reviving a state-owned national carrier. He argued that government-run airlines often struggle under bureaucratic control, while privately run carriers can grow under regulation and targeted support.

Keyamo said Nigerian airlines currently carry only a small share of the country’s international passenger traffic, with foreign carriers dominating routes out of Nigeria. He framed the new approvals as part of an effort to help local airlines take a larger share of the market available under bilateral air service arrangements.

The minister also linked the policy to aircraft financing reforms, saying banks and leasing partners were becoming more willing to support Nigerian carriers after recent aviation-sector changes.

United Nigeria Airlines said the additional Boeing aircraft would strengthen its fleet as it prepares for expanded domestic and international operations.

Sources: Arise News, THISDAYLIVE, The Sun