Uganda Airlines Launches Direct Flights from Abuja to Entebbe, Boosting Trade and Travel Across Africa
Uganda Airlines has introduced direct flights between Abuja, Nigeria, and Entebbe, Uganda, a major city in Central Uganda. This new route aims to improve travel connections, cut down on travel time, boost trade and tourism, and provide a smoother travel link between West and East Africa.
The airline announced this development during an inauguration ceremony held at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. At the event, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Nelson Ocheger, discussed the positive impact of the new flights.
According to Ambassador Ocheger, direct flights will benefit travellers by significantly reducing travel time. He mentioned that the flight from Entebbe to Abuja now takes just three and a half hours. Additionally, the flights will lower travel costs and make it easier to transport goods between the two countries.
“This new route will increase trade between Uganda and Nigeria,” Ocheger said. “As trade grows, businesses will expand, create more jobs, and improve income levels for many people.”
Ocheger also addressed concerns about human and drug trafficking, expressing confidence in the security systems of both Uganda and Nigeria. He assured that both countries have strong measures in place to detect and prevent illegal activities.
Uganda Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer, Adedayo Olawuyi, announced special fares for the new route, available for the next few months. Economy class tickets will cost $600, while business class tickets are priced at $1,665.
The Ugandan Minister of State for Transport, Honourable Fred Byamukana, emphasized the strong ties between Uganda and Nigeria. He noted that the new flights will not only strengthen their relationship but also boost economic growth.
Hassan Etibunu, a director from Nigeria’s Ministry of Aviation, pointed out that the new flights make it much easier to travel between the two countries. Previously, travel to East Africa was more complicated, but the direct flights will make the journey quicker and smoother. This, he added, will also make shipping goods between Uganda and Nigeria more affordable and efficient, opening up new trade opportunities.
