By Atoyebi Nike
Air Tanzania has launched direct flights between Dar es Salaam and Lagos, a development officials say will expand business opportunities, strengthen tourism, and deepen cultural ties between Nigeria and Tanzania.
Speaking at a dinner to celebrate the inaugural flight, Tanzania’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Selestine Kakale, said the new service would bridge geographical distance, reduce ticketing costs, and improve convenience for passengers. He noted that Lagos, as Nigeria’s commercial hub, plays a central role in regional trade.
“No nation in Africa can underestimate Nigeria as Africa’s largest economy, especially Lagos, which is the commercial hub of the ECOWAS region,” Mr Kakale said. “Nigeria and Tanzania will enjoy a buoyant economic relationship that will further strengthen partnerships in other commercial activities as well as investment opportunities.”
He revealed that over 5,000 Nigerians travelled to Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro, and other Tanzanian tourist destinations in 2024, adding that the number is expected to more than double with the introduction of the direct flights.
Permanent Secretary in Tanzania’s Ministry of Transportation, Professor Godius Kahyarara, said the Dar es Salaam–Lagos service would operate three times weekly—Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays—adding that Tanzania had expanded its aviation network with 60 new aircraft.
“Nigeria has enormous resources and the largest population in Africa, making it one of the biggest markets with immense opportunities,” he said. “The Dar es Salaam to Lagos route is not just a route but a destiny calling.”
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, welcomed the development, describing it as “a bridge” between both nations.
“This service, connecting Nigeria’s commercial hub Lagos with Dar es Salaam, is a powerful testament to the growing ties between Nigeria and Tanzania,” he said. “It will ease travel, facilitate trade, promote investment, and strengthen cultural exchange.”
The inaugural event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, captains of industry, and senior government officials.
