The Niger State Government has announced the official commencement of scheduled flight operations from the newly inaugurated Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna.
Overland Airways, Nigeria’s longest-serving private domestic airline, is the pioneer airline partner for this major milestone.
The announcement was made in Minna by Overland Airways CEO, Captain Edward Boyo, who confirmed that flights will begin on April 23, 2025. The new routes will connect Minna directly to Abuja and Lagos, the country’s political and commercial capitals.
According to Boyo, this development is a result of Governor Mohammed Bago’s visionary leadership and the coordinated efforts of the New Niger Development Project (NNDP) and New Niger Aviation (NNA), the Special Purpose Vehicle created to drive aviation growth in the state.
Captain Boyo highlighted the significance of this partnership, noting that it reflects Overland Airways’ commitment to expanding regional connectivity and supporting forward-thinking governments. “We are honoured to be the launch airline for this historic route,” he said, emphasizing the airline’s goal of bringing economic growth and accessibility closer to the people.
Chief Operating Officer of NNA, Alhaji Liman Kutigi, described the launch as “a bridge to opportunity,” stating that it is the first step in positioning Niger State as a major player in Nigeria’s aviation and logistics industry.
Flight schedules will include routes from Minna to Lagos and Abuja on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Departures from Lagos to Minna are at 8:00 AM and Minna to Lagos at 3:00 PM. For Abuja, flights depart Minna at 9:30 AM and return from Abuja at 2:00 PM.
The flights will be operated using Overland Airways’ modern Embraer E-175 aircraft, backed by its IOSA certification and a fleet known for safety and efficiency. This launch marks a significant step in Niger State’s economic transformation and regional integration.
