Foreign news

Air Algérie Begins Direct Flights to Nigeria, Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Published

2 months ago

April 6, 2025

Joel Ajayi

Air Algérie has officially launched its first direct flight from Algiers to Abuja, marking a significant milestone in Algeria–Nigeria relations.

The inaugural flight departed from Algiers International Airport and landed at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, where it was warmly received by Algerian and Nigerian government officials in a festive ceremony.

This new route is part of Air Algérie’s broader efforts to expand its international network and deepen strategic cooperation across Africa. The airline will now operate two weekly flights between Algiers and Abuja, a move expected to facilitate greater business, diplomatic, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.

Air Algérie is the national flag carrier of Algeria, established in 1962. It operates as a public economic joint-stock company, with a mission to connect Algeria to Africa, Europe, and selected destinations in Asia and the Americas.

Headquartered in Algiers, the airline provides scheduled international services to more than 47 destinations across 30 countries, including in Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East.
Domestically, Air Algérie serves 33 airports across Algeria, ensuring connectivity throughout the country.

The airline is equipped with significant human and material resources, boasting a fleet of 55 aircraft, supported by 539 pilots, 1,227 cabin crew, 607 maintenance personnel, and 42 operational units.

Air Algérie also maintains a vast commercial network. Its services are distributed through a comprehensive sales system that includes:90 branches within Algeria, 32 branches abroad, 10 general sales agents, 90 airport service points, 6,400 IATA-accredited travel agents through GDS.

Air Algérie remains committed to strengthening regional and international connectivity.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, the Algerian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Mezoued Hosineb, described the route as a vital step in further cementing the strong ties between Algeria and Nigeria.

“This historic route is more than just a flight path; it is a symbol of our shared values, mutual respect, and the unwavering commitment of our leaders to build a model partnership for Africa.”
“With this direct flight, Algiers is now just under five hours from Abuja a testament to the vision and cooperation of both our nations.”

He highlighted that the bilateral relationship, nurtured over more than two decades, has already led to major initiatives such as the Trans-Saharan pipeline and other infrastructure projects. Both Algeria and Nigeria, he noted, are open-market economies committed to reform and regional integration.

The Ambassador expressed deep gratitude to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, and other key stakeholders for their support in making the route a reality.

He also acknowledged the efforts of Air Algérie’s representatives in Nigeria.

Representing the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, emphasized the economic benefits of the new route.

“This direct flight opens a myriad of opportunities for trade and investment between Nigeria and Algeria. Our business communities now have a faster and more efficient way to connect.”

“Beyond business, this connection will foster deeper collaboration in tourism, culture, education, and research.”

Dr. Kana also praised Air Algérie’s commitment to making the long-awaited dream a reality and urged the airline to maintain high standards of passenger care.

“We expect top-notch service and zero tolerance for the mistreatment of Nigerian passengers. The Ministry stands ready to support Air Algérie in its operations,” he added.

Dr. Kana encouraged Air Algérie to expand beyond Abuja and include other key Nigerian cities in its flight schedule.

“We hope to soon see your aircraft land in Lagos and Kano. Let this be the beginning of an even stronger aviation and economic bridge between our countries.”

As Air Algérie touches down on Nigerian soil, it not only marks a logistical achievement but also opens a new chapter in Africa’s quest for greater intra-continental connectivity.

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Foreign news

Diplomatic Community in Nigeria Joins Italian Envoy in National Day Celebration

Published

20 hours ago

June 2, 2025

The Gleamer

By Joel Ajayi

It was a vibrant evening of joy, connection, and cultural celebration as the Acting Ambassador of Italy to Nigeria, Mr. Iacopo Foti, hosted members of Nigeria’s diplomatic community in Abuja to commemorate Italy’s National Day, la Festa della Repubblica.

Held in the heart of Nigeria’s capital, the event was a memorable gathering marked by laughter, heartfelt exchanges, and a shared appreciation for the enduring ties between Italy and Nigeria.
In his address, Mr. Foti described the occasion as a time to reflect on the core values that define Italy: liberty, democracy, justice, and the enduring creativity and resilience of its people.

“It is a day to celebrate our rich history, our unparalleled cultural heritage, and our contributions to art, science, and innovation,” he said. “But beyond Italy, today we also celebrate the strong and growing bonds between the Republic of Italy and the Federal Republic of Nigeria — our economies, our cultures, and above all, our people.”

The ambassador emphasized the depth of the bilateral relationship, recalling that diplomatic ties between Italy and Nigeria were established on February 20, 1960. He noted that since the 1970s and 1980s, Nigeria has become a second home for many Italians who have contributed significantly across various sectors.

“We are proud to be part of this welcoming and vibrant society,” he said. “I have personally witnessed the dedication, entrepreneurial spirit, and warmth of the Nigerian people, as well as their hospitality toward the Italian community.”

Looking ahead, Mr. Foti expressed optimism about the future of Italy-Nigeria relations, pointing to untapped opportunities for deeper economic cooperation, technological collaboration, and cultural and academic exchange.

“Nigeria is a cultural powerhouse, a leader in Africa and globally in art, literature, and film,” he remarked. “Italy, with its deep-rooted cultural legacy, is eager to expand its engagement with Africa, and particularly with Nigeria.”

He acknowledged the growing Nigerian interest in Italian culture — from fashion and design to cinema and tourism — while noting that Italy hosts the third-largest Nigerian diaspora community globally, after the United States and the United Kingdom.

The ambassador also highlighted the countries’ cooperation on global challenges such as climate change, peace and security, migration, and human trafficking. Both nations are signatories to the Paris Agreement and active participants in global policy dialogues.

“Our relationship is built on mutual respect and understanding,” he noted. “We see this in our economic ties, cultural exchanges, love for football, and the increasing number of Nigerians who study and travel to Italy, as well as Italians drawn to Nigeria’s rich history and culture.”

He pointed out the many shared qualities between Italians and Nigerians, from strong family values and communal bonds to a vibrant fashion industry and a dynamic film sector.

“We are both historically migrant societies that have achieved success abroad while keeping close ties to our homeland,” Mr. Foti said. “We share humor, resilience, and a deep appreciation for life’s ironies.”

Addressing the issue of stereotypes, he cited renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, saying: “The single story creates stereotypes, and the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete.”

He concluded by expressing gratitude for the support of Nigerian authorities and all who attended the celebration.

“On behalf of the Italian government and the people of Italy, I extend my sincere thanks to everyone who joined us. Your presence is a testament to the strength of our friendship and our shared future.”

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