Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier, has announced the expansion of its operations in Abuja with the introduction of additional flights to meet rising demand. Beginning October 28, 2025, the airline will add three extra weekly services from the Nigerian capital, further strengthening Abuja’s position as a key hub for international travel and conferences.
Currently operating daily flights from Abuja, Ethiopian Airlines will now offer passengers greater flexibility and convenience with the new evening departures. According to a statement released on Wednesday, the additional services will depart Abuja at 10:00 p.m. and arrive in Addis Ababa at 5:00 a.m., creating smooth onward connections to numerous destinations across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, including Dubai, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Madras.
Mrs. Firiehiwot Mekonnen, the Area Manager of Ethiopian Airlines in Nigeria, highlighted that the new flights are not only about frequency but also about enhancing customer experience. She explained that travelers on certain routes will benefit from increased baggage allowances, providing added value for those flying long distances. In addition, passengers enrolled in the airline’s loyalty program will be rewarded with double miles when booking these extra flights. “Our passengers will enjoy more convenience, more baggage options, and additional benefits through our frequent flyer program,” Mekonnen said.
The new evening flights will complement the existing daily midday service, which remains unchanged. This dual scheduling means travelers now have greater choice in planning their journeys. More importantly, the extra flights will help reduce overall travel time by improving onward connections from Addis Ababa to major global destinations. “Most of our passengers will now arrive at their destinations faster, saving both time and cost,” Mekonnen emphasized, noting that the move is part of the airline’s broader strategy to improve service delivery.
Ethiopian Airlines has been a consistent presence in Nigeria since 1960 and currently connects four major Nigerian cities Abuja, Lagos, Enugu, and Kano to its global network of over 150 destinations. The airline operates some of the world’s most modern aircraft, including the Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner, ensuring passengers enjoy a safe, comfortable, and efficient travel experience.
The timing of this expansion aligns with Abuja’s growing reputation as a hub for international events. The Nigerian government’s recent reopening of the Abuja International Conference Centre is expected to boost the country’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. Ethiopian Airlines’ additional flights are therefore positioned to support this trend, making it easier for conference delegates, business travelers, and tourists to access the Nigerian capital.
By expanding its Abuja operations, Ethiopian Airlines is reaffirming its commitment to the Nigerian market while also strengthening its role as a bridge between Africa and the rest of the world. The airline’s strategy combines frequency, flexibility, and customer-focused benefits, offering Nigerian travelers more options than ever before. With these new services, Ethiopian Airlines is not only expanding connectivity but also contributing to Abuja’s rise as an international destination.
