In a landmark move aimed at enhancing regional air connectivity, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially granted the Foreign Carrier Operation Permit (FCOP) to Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL), allowing the airline to commence direct flights between Nigeria and the United Republic of Tanzania. The permit was formally presented at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development headquarters in Abuja, signalling a new chapter in Nigeria-Tanzania aviation relations.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation, Ibrahim Kana, represented by Ahmed Mohammed, explained that the initiative is part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to boost operational efficiency, aviation safety, and international collaboration. “The presentation of FCOP to Air Tanzania Company Limited is a significant step in our efforts to promote aviation cooperation and excellence. We are confident that this initiative will yield positive outcomes for both nations,” Kana stated.
According to officials, the FCOP will standardise procedures for foreign airlines operating in Nigeria, ensuring seamless coordination between aviation authorities, carriers, and other stakeholders while aligning with global best practices. The permit is a crucial regulatory requirement that authorises ATCL to operate scheduled flights into and out of Nigeria, following rigorous safety and operational inspections by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
The Director of Air Traffic Regulation at the NCAA, Yinka Iriobe, highlighted that the move will strengthen bilateral aviation ties and expand connectivity across Africa. She revealed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Nigeria and Tanzania will be signed at the NCAA headquarters in Abuja. The MoU mandates ATCL to upload all passenger information to NCAA’s AVITECH portal, ensuring compliance with Nigerian aviation regulations.
The United Republic of Tanzania’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Selestine Gervas Kakele, lauded Nigeria for its cooperation and readiness to foster regional aviation partnerships. “The movement of people, goods, and services in Africa has suffered setbacks due to limited connectivity. Establishing a direct flight link between Lagos and Dar es Salaam will open new economic and cultural opportunities for both nations,” he said.
Kakele further noted that ATCL has successfully completed all regulatory requirements, including the Document of Authorization, Condition, and Limitation issued by NCAA, approval of Local Security Operation Procedures, and securing operational readiness at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos. The airline has also requested office space and residence permits for its staff to facilitate smooth operations.
Analysts say the approval is a strategic move that could stimulate trade, tourism, and investment flows between West Africa and East Africa. Nigeria, as a leading economy in the region, is positioned to serve as a gateway for East African carriers seeking broader market access. The direct flights are expected to reduce travel time, cut operational costs for businesses, and enhance the movement of goods and services, strengthening regional economic integration.
“The commencement of Air Tanzania’s flights will not only improve passenger convenience but also create opportunities for trade expansion, tourism growth, and cultural exchange. Airlines today are critical facilitators of economic development, and this partnership underscores Nigeria’s commitment to regional collaboration,” said aviation analyst, Adebola Akinyemi.
With this development, Nigeria continues to position itself as a regional hub for aviation in Africa. The Federal Government has also emphasised its readiness to provide support and guidance to foreign carriers, ensuring compliance with local laws and enhancing operational standards. Experts believe this initiative could pave the way for additional bilateral agreements, encouraging more African carriers to operate directly within the continent.
As Nigeria and Tanzania prepare to launch direct flights, stakeholders anticipate increased passenger traffic and cargo movement, creating jobs and stimulating economic activity in both nations. The partnership aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of leveraging aviation as a tool for regional integration, economic growth, and international cooperation.
Air Tanzania is now expected to commence scheduled flights from Dar es Salaam to Lagos within the coming weeks, pending final operational arrangements, marking a significant milestone in Africa’s evolving aviation landscape.