Turkish Airlines has celebrated the 10th anniversary of its operations in Abuja, describing the milestone as a tribute to “dreams taking flight” and a testament to resilience, growth, and enduring partnerships.
Speaking at a commemorative dinner held in Abuja on Saturday, the airline’s General Manager, Mr Akin Carcki, reflected on the journey since Turkish Airlines launched direct flights between Istanbul and Abuja in 2015.
“Tonight, we’re not just marking an anniversary we’re celebrating years of dreams taking flight,” Carcki said. “We’re celebrating challenges turned into achievements, and partnerships that have helped us fly higher than ever before.”
Recalling the airline’s early days in Abuja, Carcki expressed amazement at the progress made despite facing “formidable challenges.”
Since the inaugural flight, Turkish Airlines has operated over 6,000 flights in and out of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. “We have formed a brand that everyone is proud of, and created a service experience that reflects the heart and soul of Turkish hospitality,” he added.
Carcki praised the Nigerian government for fostering an enabling environment for the aviation sector, crediting its support as key to the airline’s success in the country.
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He also expressed gratitude to travel agencies and industry partners for their continued loyalty and confidence. “The achievements made by the airline were not handed to us on a silver platter. They are the result of deliberate effort and collaboration,” he noted.
Acknowledging the global crises that have tested the aviation industry in recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Carcki said Turkish Airlines remained steadfast in its mission.
“We are not just in the business of transport we are in the business of connection. We bring people closer to what matters most: their families, their businesses, and their homelands,” he stated.
Highlighting the airline’s global growth, Carcki announced that Turkish Airlines now operates flights to 353 destinations in 131 countries and recently won eight awards at the Skytrax 2025 Awards, including “Best Airline in Europe” for the tenth time.
He also emphasised the airline’s focus on technological advancement and customer experience. “We are embracing technology to offer smoother, smarter, and more comfortable journeys. And we are developing our people, because they are the heart of everything we do,” he said.
Looking ahead, Carcki reaffirmed Turkish Airlines’ commitment to deepening its partnership with Nigeria and enhancing international connectivity.
“No journey is made alone. As we look to the future, we will need the same spirit of partnership, innovation and determination that brought us here tonight,” he concluded.
The event was attended by dignitaries including the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, his deputy Elif Durdu, and officials from Nigeria’s ministries of Aviation and Foreign Affairs, alongside representatives of travel agencies and industry stakeholders.
