Federal Government says it has already approved four to five viable destinations in Canada, New York, Dubai, and others, ahead of a planned commencement of international flight operations by the indigenous carrier.

The government explained that he decision was part of a broader strategy to strengthen Nigerian carriers and increase their share of international passenger traffic.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, who disclosed this, Thursday, during the unveiling of two newly acquired Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft by the airline, stated that the route approvals form part of ongoing efforts to reposition domestic airlines to compete more effectively on international routes, traditionally dominated by foreign operators.

“We are giving United Nigeria Airlines about four or five routes. We are giving them New York, Canada, Dubai and some other viable destinations,” the minister said.

The minister said Nigerian airlines currently account for only a small fraction of international passenger traffic originating from the country despite bilateral agreements that provide reciprocal operating rights.

According to him, foreign airlines transport between 90 and 95 per cent of passengers travelling from Nigeria to destinations across Europe, North America, the Middle East and other regions.

“That market belongs to Nigeria as much as it belongs to any foreign airline. Our carriers must be empowered to participate meaningfully in that space,” he said.

The minister explained that the approvals were granted ahead of the airline’s planned expansion to allow it build capacity and prepare for future international operations.

He said the government’s aviation policy has focused on removing barriers that previously constrained the growth of domestic operators.

He also linked the route approvals to ongoing government efforts to improve access to aircraft acquisition and leasing opportunities for Nigerian airlines.

He disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had approved the establishment of a Nigerian aircraft leasing company aimed at helping domestic carriers secure aircraft through government-backed arrangements.

According to him, the initiative is expected to reduce some of the financing challenges that have historically limited the expansion of local airlines.

The minister said the government’s preference is to support privately owned Nigerian carriers rather than revive a state-owned national airline.

He argued that many successful global airlines operate under commercial structures that minimise political interference and enhance efficiency.

The route announcement came as United Nigeria Airlines unveiled two Boeing 737-800NG aircraft named after the Obi of Onitsha, Nnaemeka Achebe, and renowned Nigerian novelist, Chinua Achebe.

The acquisition forms part of the airline’s fleet expansion programme.

Keyamo also used the occasion to disclose that the federal government is working with the Abia State Government on the development of the proposed Abia International Airport, adding that the long-term plan is for United Nigeria Airlines to establish a major operational hub at the airport when completed.

The minister also reiterated plans to transform the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu into a dedicated cargo hub serving businesses across the South-East.

According to him, discussions are ongoing to facilitate direct cargo flights between China and Enugu, a move expected to improve trade logistics for importers and exporters in the region.

Keyamo said reforms introduced over the past two and a half years are beginning to yield results across the aviation sector.

He noted that the government spent considerable time engaging operators, regulators and other stakeholders to address longstanding industry concerns before implementing policy changes.

“We took the issues one after another and focused on creating an environment where airlines can grow sustainably,” he said.