Nigeria’s aviation market is set for a major boost as Etihad Airways moves to strengthen its presence in West Africa ahead of the launch of daily Lagos operations in March 2027.
The UAE national carrier has appointed APG Nigeria as its General Sales Agent, with the agreement formalized in Lagos during a signing ceremony attended by senior executives of both organizations.
Etihad’s Vice President for Global Sales and Distribution, Javier Alija, described Nigeria as “one of the most important aviation markets in Africa,” saying the partnership with APG Nigeria will support the airline’s growth ambitions in the country.
Responding, APG Nigeria Chairman, Olufemi Adefope, said the appointment reinforces the company’s position as a leading airline representation firm and pledged to expand Etihad’s market presence across Nigeria.
Etihad plans to begin daily Lagos services on March 18, 2027, using the Boeing 787-900 Dreamliner, offering one-stop connections to more than 120 destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, North America and Australia through Abu Dhabi.
Industry analysts say the partnership is expected to improve travel options for Nigerian passengers, deepen engagement with the travel trade and strengthen Etihad’s long-term commercial footprint in Africa’s largest aviation market.