Raphael Oni
Air Tanzania has officially commenced direct flight operations between Lagos, Nigeria, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, marking a significant milestone in connectivity between West and East Africa. This new route establishes a direct link between the two regions, eliminating the need for lengthy layovers in other countries.
The direct flight service, operated by Air Tanzania’s Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft, will run three times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The flight duration is approximately 4-5 hours, significantly reducing travel time between the two cities.
This development is expected to greatly benefit business communities, tourists, and families by providing a faster and more efficient travel option. The launch of this service is seen as a major boost for trade, tourism, and economic cooperation between Tanzania and Nigeria, aligning with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area.
To commemorate this occasion, the Tanzanian High Commission in Nigeria hosted a celebratory dinner in Victoria Island, Lagos, bringing together government officials, diplomats, and business leaders to acknowledge this milestone in bilateral relations.
Speaking at the occasion , Peter Ulanga, Managing Director and CEO of Air Tanzania, said, “the direct flight from Dar es Salaam to Lagos provides opportunities for Nigerian tourists to visit places of interest like Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, and many others,”. The direct flight agreement is expected to increase awareness of Tanzania’s tourist attractions and business opportunities in Nigeria. This will also facilitate trade, investment, and cultural exchange between the two nations.
The direct flight between these two countries will promote regional integration and contribute to the development of the African travel market and intra-African connectivity. According to Professor Godius Kahyarara, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, United Republic of Tanzania, “the choice of Nigeria will help to promote education, investment opportunities, tourism, and commerce in line with the new African Continental Free Trade Agenda now being implemented,”.
Nigeria and Tanzania established diplomatic relations on May 8, 1964. Since then, the two countries have maintained cordial relations and cooperated in various areas, including trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. The establishment of diplomatic relations has facilitated the growth of bilateral ties and has enabled the countries to work together on issues of mutual interest.
