Lufthansa Group Eyes Bigger Nigeria Presence With New Airline
Pecohub The Lufthansa Group says it plans to introduce Eurowings, one of its carriers, into the Nigerian market next year.
The German aviation spoke on the plan on Thursday when a delegation, led by Alexandra Dietzen-Zill, senior manager, aeropolitical relations and traffic rights, met with Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace development, in Abuja
The delegation also included Walid Mahmud, sales executive at Lufthansa Technik Aero Alzey.
According to a statement by Tunde Moshood, special adviser to the minister on media and communications, the planned entry of Eurowings was among the issues discussed during the meeting, which focused on strengthening aviation relations between Nigeria and Germany.
Speaking during the meeting, Dietzen-Zill said the airline is expected to operate Boeing 737-series aircraft, adding that its entry would further expand air connectivity between both countries.
The delegation also discussed the existing bilateral air services agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Germany, which was signed in 2010.
According to the delegation, the BASA is due for review and ratification to reflect current realities in the aviation relationship between both countries.
Dietzen-Zill commended Keyamo for reforms and initiatives aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s aviation sector.
She particularly highlighted Nigeria’s accession to and implementation of the Cape Town Convention, describing the development and other ongoing reforms as important steps towards strengthening confidence in the Nigerian aviation market.
The senior manager said Lufthansa Group remains interested in a stronger and modernised aviation framework between Nigeria and Germany.
“The German Ministry of Transport is currently reviewing the existing BASA with a view to reaching a conclusion on its revision and eventual ratification,” Dietzen-Zill said.
Responding, Keyamo welcomed the delegation and expressed appreciation for Lufthansa’s longstanding presence and operations in Nigeria.
He reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to creating an aviation environment that supports legitimate investment, promotes connectivity, and encourages international airlines to expand their operations in the country.
The minister assured the Lufthansa Group representatives of his readiness to support the airline within the scope of his mandate.
“The ministry remains open to constructive engagement with international aviation stakeholders seeking to expand their operations and contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s aviation sector,” Keyamo said.
He added that the administration is committed to policies that enhance investor confidence, strengthen bilateral aviation relationships and position Nigeria as a leading aviation hub in Africa.
