Overland Airways Takes Off in Minna, Boosting Connectivity and Trade in Niger State

Overland Airways, a prominent Nigerian domestic airline, has launched new flight services to Minna, the capital of Niger State, opening up exciting opportunities for African travel agents. This strategic move connects Minna to Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria’s major commercial hubs, starting April 23, 2025, and promises to stimulate trade, tourism, and economic growth in the region.

This expansion marks a significant milestone for Niger State, enhancing its accessibility and integration into Nigeria’s national air transport network. The new routes, operating three times a week, utilize Overland Airways’ modern Embraer 175 jets, ensuring a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers. This development is poised to transform Minna into a key travel hub, facilitating business and leisure travel within the region.

Travel agents can leverage these new routes to create attractive travel packages that combine the bustling energy of Lagos and Abuja with the unique cultural and natural attractions of Niger State. This enhanced connectivity opens doors for exploring new tourism circuits and developing specialized itineraries catering to diverse traveler interests. The convenient flight schedule, with services on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays between Minna, Lagos, and Abuja, allows for seamless travel planning and maximizes opportunities for multi-destination trips.

The launch of these routes is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Overland Airways and the Niger State government, particularly Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, whose vision for a connected and prosperous Niger State has been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. The Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna, a key element of the state’s economic development strategy, is now poised to become a catalyst for growth, attracting investment and boosting trade in the region.

The visualization below illustrates the expanded route network, highlighting the strategic connections between Minna, Lagos, and Abuja. This visual representation underscores the enhanced accessibility of Niger State and the potential for increased travel flow within the region. Travel agents can utilize this map to showcase the new travel options available to their clients and promote the diverse attractions of Niger State.

In addition to the Minna routes, Overland Airways has also resumed services between Abuja and Jalingo, further strengthening its regional network. These flights, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, provide convenient travel options for passengers and enhance connectivity between these important cities. This expanded service offering reinforces Overland Airways’ commitment to providing reliable and efficient air travel solutions within Nigeria.

Travel agents can capitalize on these developments by incorporating the new routes into their travel itineraries and promoting the unique experiences that Niger State has to offer. The state’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and growing tourism sector present exciting opportunities for creating customized travel packages that cater to a wide range of interests. By highlighting the convenience and accessibility of air travel with Overland Airways, travel agents can attract new clients and contribute to the growth of tourism in the region.

Overland Airways’ commitment to safety and operational excellence is further reinforced by its recent renewal of the IOSA safety certification for the fifth consecutive time. This achievement underscores the airline’s dedication to maintaining the highest international safety standards, providing passengers with peace of mind and reinforcing trust in its services. This commitment to safety is a key selling point for travel agents promoting Overland Airways to their clients.

The timeline below provides a visual overview of Overland Airways’ key milestones, including its consistent IOSA certifications and the introduction of the Embraer 175 jets. This timeline demonstrates the airline’s ongoing commitment to modernization and safety, reinforcing its position as a leading carrier in the Nigerian aviation market.

The expansion of air travel options in Niger State is expected to have a significant economic impact, stimulating trade, tourism, and investment. The Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport is poised to become a vital gateway for businesses and travelers, facilitating economic growth and creating new opportunities for local communities. Travel agents are strategically positioned to leverage these developments, contributing to the growth of the tourism sector and promoting Niger State as a premier destination in Nigeria.

By embracing these new routes and incorporating them into their travel offerings, African travel agents can enhance their services, attract new clients, and contribute to the continued development of the Nigerian travel market. This initiative by Overland Airways represents a significant step forward for regional connectivity, opening up a world of possibilities for both travelers and travel professionals alike.