The Ugandan High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Nelson Ocheger, has expressed optimism that the newly inaugurated direct flight from Entebbe to Abuja will significantly enhance trade, tourism, and services between Uganda and Nigeria. Ambassador Ocheger shared this during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday evening, following the arrival of Uganda Airlines’ maiden direct flight to the Nigerian capital.
Accompanying the envoy on this milestone flight were several dignitaries, including Uganda’s Minister of State for Transportation, Hon. Fred Byamukawa; a Director in Nigeria’s Ministry of Aviation, Mr. Hassan Ejibunu; Nigeria’s Acting Commissioner to Uganda, Adebowale Oyeyemi; and the Chief Commercial Officer of Uganda Airlines, Adedayo Olawuyi.
Ocheger noted that the direct flight reduced travel time between Entebbe and Abuja from a lengthy seven hours to just three and a half hours, a significant improvement from the previous situation where travelers had to connect flights through other cities. He also mentioned that prior to this, Uganda Airlines had launched a direct Entebbe to Lagos flight, which shortened the journey for Abuja-bound passengers, but still required a stopover in Lagos.
“This flight, and the many more to come, will impact Nigerians and other travelers in several important ways,” Ambassador Ocheger said. “First and foremost, it reduces the travel time between Entebbe and Abuja, which will promote trade and services between our two countries.”
Ocheger explained that the reduction in travel time is not just about convenience but also has a direct economic impact. “It’s also going to reduce the cost of transport. Previously, flights between Entebbe and Abuja, using other airlines, took up to seven hours. The cost and time involved made it challenging for business travelers and cargo operators,” he added.
The Ambassador emphasized the positive impact this direct flight will have on trade, particularly the movement of cargo between Uganda and Nigeria. “This flight will facilitate the movement of goods, especially perishable products and other cargo that can be flown by air, thus increasing the volume of trade. Businesses will thrive, more jobs will be created, and people will have more money in their pockets,” he explained.
The direct connection between the two nations is expected to enhance opportunities for Ugandan exports such as coffee, tea, and fresh produce to reach Nigerian markets more efficiently. Similarly, Nigerian goods, including textiles and manufactured products, will have easier access to Ugandan consumers, contributing to a mutually beneficial trade relationship.
Ocheger pointed out that the direct flight would foster stronger ties between the two countries, ultimately leading to increased cooperation in various sectors, including tourism. “The launch of this direct flight will also encourage more people to travel for leisure and tourism. Uganda has a lot to offer, and this link will open up opportunities for Nigerians to explore Uganda’s rich cultural and natural heritage, while also bringing more Ugandans to discover Nigeria’s vibrant cities and unique experiences.”
Ambassador Ocheger also addressed concerns regarding potential security risks, such as human and drug trafficking, which can arise with increased international travel. He assured that both Uganda and Nigeria have robust systems in place to identify and prevent such activities.
“The Federal Republic of Nigeria has a solid system to identify wolves among the sheep, and Uganda has similar mechanisms. I am confident that with the systems existing in both countries, we will work together to address any emerging threats,” Ocheger stated. He added that ongoing conversations between the two governments include revisiting expired agreements and reviewing frameworks related to drug and human trafficking to ensure the safety of travelers and the integrity of the new travel corridor.
The Ambassador also highlighted the broader significance of the new flight route in promoting African integration, a cause strongly championed by Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. “Countries don’t integrate; it’s the people that do. Once we create an enabling environment where people can move freely between Uganda and Nigeria, East Africa and West Africa, we are laying the foundation for a more integrated African continent,” Ocheger said.
This direct link, he suggested, is a significant step toward facilitating regional and continental integration, which will contribute to the African Union’s long-term goal of creating a single market for goods and services.
During the press briefing, Uganda Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer, Adedayo Olawuyi, disclosed that tickets for the Entebbe-Abuja route would be priced at $600 for economy class. This competitive pricing is expected to encourage more frequent travel between the two nations, further boosting commerce, tourism, and personal connections.
Olawuyi expressed confidence that the airline’s affordable and efficient service will attract both business and leisure travelers. “We are focused on making air travel more accessible for passengers traveling between Uganda and Nigeria. This direct route marks a sig
