The Ambassador of the Republic of Tunisia to Nigeria, Moshen Antit, has announced plans for the introduction of direct flights between Tunisia and Nigeria by 2026.
Speaking in Abuja, the Ambassador emphasized the importance of this development in facilitating closer business, political, and cultural interactions. Improved air connectivity is expected to ease travel for both business professionals and tourists, thereby enhancing economic and diplomatic ties.
“Currently, flights between Nigeria and Tunisia are mainly operated by non-African airlines. The only African carrier offering a direct link recently is Morocco’s Royal Air Maroc, which launched a route between Abuja and Casablanca in June 2024,” Moshen Antit stated.
He added that the direct flight initiative aims to improve accessibility and foster stronger economic and cultural ties between the two countries. Although the plan is still in the developmental stage, both Tunisia and Nigeria are committed to ensuring its successful implementation.
“So, we are in North Africa, you are in the West, but the distance is not too far. Today, we are obliged to take two flights to move to Tunisia, which is contradictory. This has to change. We are working on establishing an airline link between Tunisia and Nigeria to make our affairs and relationships more effective,” he said.
The Ambassador also discussed this initiative with President Tinubu in April 2024, where both leaders agreed on the necessity of the project.
The scheduled launch of the direct flights in 2026 reflects the commitment of both nations to enhancing their partnership.
In addition to the aviation developments, the Tunisian Ambassador highlighted the importance of cultural exchanges and collaborations across various sectors.
He revealed that a delegation of over 20 Tunisian businessmen would visit Abuja for a multisectoral economic forum, aimed at bolstering economic and investment ties between the two countries.
“This forum is the first of its kind in scale and will be a significant opportunity for Nigerian and Tunisian businessmen to meet, exchange ideas, and explore investment opportunities in a face-to-face setting. The economic potential between our nations is enormous, and both sides are eager to collaborate in various sectors,” Moshen Antit concluded.