Nigeria Grants Air Tanzania Permit For Direct Flights To Lagos.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially granted a Foreign Carrier Operation Permit (FCOP) to Air Tanzania Company Limited, paving the way for the East African airline to commence direct flights between Dar es Salaam and Lagos. The presentation ceremony took place on Tuesday, 12 August 2025, at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development headquarters in Abuja.
The initiative, described as a significant milestone in strengthening aviation ties between Nigeria and Tanzania, aims to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and collaboration between the two nations’ aviation sectors. Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, represented by Ahmed Mohammed, emphasised that the FCOP will standardise procedures and ensure seamless interactions, aligning with international best practices. “This is a strategic step towards promoting aviation cooperation and excellence,” Kana said, noting that the move aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda for regional integration across Africa.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) confirmed that Air Tanzania met rigorous regulatory requirements, including a thorough base inspection in Tanzania and approval of its Local Security Operation Procedures. Mrs Yinka Babaoye Iriobe, NCAA’s Director of Air Traffic Regulation, highlighted that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will soon be signed, mandating Air Tanzania to upload passenger data into the NCAA’s AVITECH portal to ensure compliance. She expressed optimism about Nigeria’s potential to drive aviation growth, welcoming the airline’s entry into the market.
Tanzania’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Selestine Gervas Kakele, hailed the development as a “gateway to African prosperity,” underscoring the importance of improved regional connectivity. “The movement of people, goods, and services in Africa has long been hindered by a lack of direct flight links. This partnership will address that challenge,” he stated. Kakele noted that Air Tanzania is poised to launch scheduled flights following the completion of final arrangements, including securing office space at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and residence permits for its staff.
The introduction of direct flights is expected to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between Nigeria and Tanzania, fostering stronger bilateral ties. The Federal Government has assured Air Tanzania of full support to ensure smooth operations, with relevant agencies instructed to facilitate the airline’s needs.
This development marks a positive step towards enhancing Africa’s aviation network, with Nigeria and Tanzania leading the way in promoting regional cooperation and connectivity.