The Federal Government has agreed to lift the ban placed on Emirates Airlines from operating in Nigeria.
The Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, in a statement, said the commencement of the airline’s operations would, however, depend on the commencement of visa issuance by the UAE as it had written to Nigerian Government.that they agree to issue visas to Nigerians and consequently decision has been reached to allow Emirates to fly into Nigeria.
Sirika said the commencement of the visa issuance is condition precedent as the ban action was taken to protect the interests of the nation and its citizens who deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, as Nigeria treats other nationals.
The Minister commended the understanding of those who have been negatively affected by the recent policy decisions that forbade some airlines from operating into the country when Nigeria reopened its air space to international flights.
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The Emirates Airlines was initially given approval to operate into the country, an approval which was withdrawn following the inability of Nigerians to obtain/use valid tourist visas to enter the UAE.
Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe
