Uganda Airlines has launched direct flights between Entebbe and Abuja, offering a new route that significantly cuts travel time and costs between the two nations.
The new service, which commenced on September 12, provides twice-weekly flights from Entebbe International Airport to Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, marking a milestone in the growing relationship between Uganda and Nigeria.
The direct flight service takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, a contrast to the previous indirect routes that could take up to 14 hours.
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The new route complements Uganda Airlines’ existing service to Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, which was launched last year.
According to Nelson Ocheger, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, this development will strengthen the ties between East and West Africa, facilitating not only the movement of people but also goods and services. He noted that the route would ease travel, reduce costs, and boost the volume of trade between the two countries.
“The direct flight will facilitate the movement of cargo and reduce transport costs. This will ultimately increase trade, benefit businesses, and generate more employment opportunities for people in both countries,” Ocheger said.
The high commissioner stated that before the launch of this service, travellers between Uganda and Nigeria often had to connect through other East African countries or make layovers in Lagos, making the journey long and cumbersome. He said that the new route eliminates this inconvenience, streamlining travel for both business and leisure purposes.
Ocheger explained that the launch is expected to have a positive impact on several sectors, including tourism, education, and trade. With Uganda attracting Nigerian students, particularly in science courses, and Nigeria being a key market for Ugandan products, the direct flights will help strengthen these ties.
He noted also that the tourism sectors of both countries stand to benefit from increased visitor numbers.
BusinessDay
