The federal government has agreed to lift the ban placed on Emirates Airlines from flying into and out of the country based.
This development followed an undertaking by the authorities of the United Arabs Emirates (UAE).
Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, on Wednesday said the commencement of the airline’s operations would, however, depend on the commencement of visa issuance by the UAE.
“UAE has written to state that they agree to issue visas to Nigerians, consequently decision has been reached to allow Emirates to fly into Nigeria. Commencement of the Visa issuance is condition precedent. Please bear with this unusual situation”, Sirika said.
The minister appreciated the understanding of everyone who had been affected by the recent policy decisions which prevented some airlines from accessing the nation’s airspace, when international flight operations resumed after being forced down by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The minister ,in a statement by the Director Public Affair James Odaudu, said the decisions were taken to protect the interests of the nation and its citizens who deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, same Nigeria treats other nationals.
It will be recalled that Emirates Airlines was initially given approval to operate into the country, an approval which was withdrawn following the inability of Nigerians to obtain/use valid tourist visas to enter the UAE.
