Emirates Airlines and Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at boosting inbound tourism to Nigeria. The agreement was officially sealed on April 30, 2025, during the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai.
The MoU sets out a collaborative framework to attract international visitors to Nigeria by leveraging Emirates’ extensive global network, which spans over 140 destinations. Key initiatives include joint marketing campaigns, familiarisation trips, and incentives for trade partners and tour operators. This partnership is aligned with Nigeria’s “Destination 2030” initiative, which aims to position the country as a leading global hub for culture, heritage, and creative tourism.
Adil Al Ghaith, Emirates’ Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations, highlighted the airline’s commitment to promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and diverse natural attractions. The partnership seeks to position Nigeria as the “Heartbeat of Africa,” showcasing its vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality.
The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) will lead the implementation of the MoU, working closely with Emirates to develop and execute the proposed initiatives.
To further enhance connectivity, Emirates has entered into an interline agreement with Nigeria’s Air Peace, expanding its reach to 13 additional cities across the country. This collaboration allows travellers flying from Dubai to Lagos to seamlessly connect to cities such as Abuja, Benin City, Calabar, and other key destinations, making it easier for international tourists to explore Nigeria.
Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa expressed her excitement about the partnership, noting that it represents a significant moment for Nigeria’s tourism sector. The collaboration is seen as a vital step towards achieving the country’s tourism development goals and reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to showcasing its rich cultural heritage to the world, stating:
“This partnership with Emirates marks a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s tourism sector. It serves as a critical springboard for driving inbound tourism as we work towards delivering on our Destination 2030 Soft Power Initiative, endorsed by the President, to position Nigeria as a global leader in culture, heritage, and creativity. Strengthening strategic alliances with international stakeholders like Emirates not only opens new gateways for visitors but also empowers local communities, stimulates economic growth, and showcases Nigeria’s extraordinary cultural tapestry to the world.”
This MoU marks an important milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its global tourism profile and drive economic growth through increased international visitor arrivals.
