Foreign news
Air Algérie Begins Direct Flights to Nigeria, Strengthening Bilateral Ties
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.
Foreign news
Pakistan Accuses India of Provocation, Condemns Missile Strike and Drone Incursions
Joel Ajayi
The High Commissioner of Pakistan to Nigeria, Rt. Maj.-Gen. Sohail Khan, has strongly condemned the Indian missile attack on the night of May 7, which struck nine locations across Pakistan, resulting in the deaths of 37 civilians, including women and children.
In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, the High Commission described India’s allegations as baseless, devoid of truth, and filled with propaganda.
High Commissioner emphasized that Pakistan’s commitment to peace should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness.
According to the statement, the High Commission categorically rejected the “irresponsible and unfounded” accusations propagated by Indian media, which claimed that Pakistan was responsible for attacks on Pathankot, Jaisalmer, and Srinagar.
“The statement labeled these claims as politically motivated and part of a reckless propaganda campaign aimed at maligning Pakistan.”
It further stated that the repeated pattern of making accusations against Pakistan without credible investigation reflects a deliberate strategy to manufacture a pretext for aggression and destabilize the region. Such behavior, the Commission warned, not only threatens regional peace but also exposes a troubling tendency to exploit misinformation for political and military gains.
“We urge the international community to take serious note of this dangerous behavior and to advise India to act with restraint and responsibility,” the statement read.
It concluded by affirming that “any escalation based on false pretenses will be met with full resolve and determination to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.” The Commission reiterated that while Pakistan remains vigilant and committed to peace, it will not be provoked, intimidated, or misled, and reserves the right to respond to any acts of aggression. The allegations were rejected in the strongest possible terms.
It is worth recalling that on Thursday, India accused Pakistan of launching drone and missile attacks on three military bases in Indian territory and Indian-administered Kashmir—an allegation Islamabad promptly denied.
Meanwhile, Pakistan claimed it had shot down 25 Indian drones in recent hours, while New Delhi has remained publicly silent on the matter
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