Nigeria, UAE lift travel restrictions, sign new agreement

The Nigerian government and the United Arab Emirates, UAE, have agreed to lift travel restrictions between the two countries.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Director-General of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, Captain Musa Nuhu after both countries signed a new agreement.

Airlines of both countries, including the Emirates can now resume operations based on the terms and conditions of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) signed”

Part of the statement read, “Following the review and acceptance of the “Safety Decision 2021-02 issue 24” as released by United Arab Emirates (UAE) General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Federal Government, the Honourable Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika has approved the reinstatement of Emirates Airlines Winter Schedule with immediate effect. All parties have been informed accordingly.

The NCAA boss further said, “Consequently, Air peace and Emirates Airlines are at liberty to resume scheduled passenger flights between Nigeria and UAE under the terms and conditions of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between the two countries. All parties must ensure strict compliance with the COVID-19 Travel Protocols of both countries”.

“We wish to reassure the travelling public that the Federal Government would continue to ensure the provision of air services while protecting national’s interests at all times,” Captain Nuhu added.

Recall there had been flight restrictions between Nigeria and the Dubai Emirate since 2021.

With the latest development, Nigerian airlines can now fly into Dubai and vice versa.