Air Tanzania Nigeria Operations approved as Federal Government grants Foreign Carrier Permit, opening direct Dar es Salaam–Lagos routes
Air Tanzania Nigeria Operations have officially received a green light as the Federal Government granted the airline its Foreign Carrier Operation Permit (FCOP), setting the stage for direct flights between Dar es Salaam and Lagos.
Also read: Ibom Air passenger incident sparks national outrage at Lagos airport
The announcement was made at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development headquarters in Abuja, where the Permanent Secretary,
Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, emphasized that the move will enhance efficiency, safety, and cooperation between Nigeria and Tanzania’s aviation sectors.
“The presentation of FCOP to Air Tanzania Company Limited is a significant step in our efforts to promote aviation cooperation and excellence,” Kana said, adding that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for regional integration.
Director of Air Traffic Regulation at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Yinka Babaoye Iriobe, confirmed that the FCOP is the final regulatory step needed for Air Tanzania to begin operations.
She revealed that a formal Memorandum of Understanding between both nations will soon be signed at NCAA headquarters.
Tanzania’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Selestine Gervas Kakele, welcomed the approval, calling Nigeria “the gateway to prosperity for all African nations.”
He said Air Tanzania is fully prepared to commence scheduled flights following a rigorous inspection process and has already secured approval for its Local Security Operation Procedures.
With direct connections between Dar es Salaam and Lagos set to launch soon, both nations anticipate a boost in trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Also read: Ibom Air passenger incident sparks national outrage at Lagos airport
As the Tanzanian envoy noted, “This is more than a route — it’s a bridge to prosperity.”
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
