Air Algérie’s maiden flight to Abuja signifies strengthening ties – Algerian Ambassador

The Algerian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Hocine Mezoued, has described the launch of Air Algérie’s Algiers–Abuja route as a significant step in bolstering the diplomatic and economic relationship between both nations.

Speaking on Sunday in Abuja at the official inauguration of the direct service by Algeria’s national carrier, Mezoued noted that the move reflects Algeria’s commitment to improving intra-African connectivity. Air Algérie currently operates a fleet of 55 aircraft.

He explained that before the establishment of this route, Algerian travellers often had to endure long journeys beyond the African continent to secure connecting flights to Nigeria.

“This direct service is expected to unlock a wide range of economic prospects for both countries,” Mezoued stated. “It eliminates a major barrier for business communities and investors, making it easier to engage in commerce and partnerships across our borders.”

He added that the initiative would also promote greater cultural and tourism exchanges and foster academic collaborations between institutions in Algeria and Nigeria.

The ambassador expressed optimism that further developments in bilateral relations would follow in the coming months, especially in the areas of economic integration and human capital exchange. In his remarks, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, described the development as a milestone in Nigeria-Algeria relations.

He emphasised that air travel remains pivotal to economic growth, and the introduction of the new route would deepen diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries.

Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Welcomes Inaugural Direct Flight from Algiers

On April 6th, 2025, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, welcomed the inaugural direct flight from Algiers, operated by Air Algérie. pic.twitter.com/CP5MVD2Imu

— Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (@FAAN_Official) April 7, 2025

Keyamo also encouraged Air Algérie to provide Nigerian passengers with high-quality service, underscoring that respectful and dignified treatment should be a top priority.

Also speaking at the event, Ms. Hosnia Kaouah, head of the commercial division at Air Algérie, said the new route was part of a broader vision to enhance connectivity within Africa and to international destinations.

Kaouah noted that the African aviation market holds vast potential, estimating approximately 200,000 passengers annually. She said this presents an opportunity for Algiers Airport to serve as a strategic transit hub linking West Africa with Europe and the Middle East.

She further explained that the launch of the Algiers–Abuja service aligns with the African Airlines Association’s (AFRAA) broader programme aimed at fostering cooperation among African carriers to enhance continental connectivity.

Initially, the service will operate twice a week, forming a key part of efforts to strengthen links between the two countries.

Air Algérie was founded in 1962 and operates as a state-owned joint-stock company, flying to destinations across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Dignitaries present at the inaugural event included Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu; the Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Miriam Palmero; other members of the diplomatic corps; and representatives from various aviation agencies.