Emirates Airline suspends flight operations to Nigeria

Emirates Airline has suspended flight operations between Nigeria and Dubai, and the suspension, which commenced today, comes days after the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority reduced Emirates flight operations into the country from 21 to once weekly. This reduction has sparked a dispute between the two nations, centering around the bilateral agreement that governs air travel between Nigeria and the UAE. The heart of the issue lies with Nigeria's Airpeace Airlines, which, despite the bilateral agreement allowing Nigeria to operate 21 flights like Emirates, is only permitted one flight per week. This imbalance has led to tensions between the countries, with Nigeria insisting on reciprocity and fair treatment in the agreement. Khadiyah Kindali, a partner at TIA Capital, shared insights on the situation and the implications of this ongoing dispute. Kindali emphasized the need for Nigeria to stand firm on its foreign policy and ensure consistency in protecting its citizens' interests. She highlighted the importance of negotiating from a position of strength, even if Nigeria lacks the capacity to match Emirates' requested 21 flights per week. The interview also delved into the history of disputes between Nigeria and the UAE, citing a recent disagreement over extra checks on Nigerian passengers by the UAE. This previous issue, which led to a temporary halt in Emirates flights to Nigeria, may have contributed to the current tensions. Kindali suggested that Nigeria's current stance is not only about the aviation agreement but also serves as a warning to other countries to respect Nigeria's interests and not take advantage of the nation. The interview further explored the broader implications of this dispute, drawing parallels with similar situations in other countries like Ghana, which retaliated against the UK's decision to divert flights to a less profitable airport. Kindali noted that setting a marker and asserting a country's interests is a common response in such situations, emphasizing the need for Nigeria to protect its position and push for fair treatment in bilateral agreements. As the dispute unfolds, Nigeria is expected to continue advocating for a more equitable aviation agreement with the UAE, aiming to establish a mutually beneficial arrangement for both countries. The outcome of these negotiations will not only shape air travel between Nigeria and Dubai but also set a precedent for future bilateral agreements in the region.