Koko Maxwella 
LAGOS, Nigeria- Ethiopian Airlines celebrates 80 years of uninterrupted operations, describing Nigeria as a strategic partner in its global expansion and African aviation leadership.
Speaking at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, General Manager (Nigeria) Firiehiwot Mekonnen says the airline’s relationship with Nigeria dates back to 1960 and reflects decades of resilience and collaboration.
“Nigeria has been an important part of our story since 1960… we have never stopped flying through every season,” she says.
The airline, founded in 1946 with a maiden flight from Addis Ababa to Cairo, now operates across 144 destinations globally with a fleet of over 140 aircraft.
Mekonnen notes that Nigeria remains central to passenger traffic growth and regional connectivity, describing it as “not just a destination but a valued partner.”
Beyond passenger services, the airline has expanded into training, maintenance, airport development and hospitality, signalling a diversified growth strategy.
Industry observers say the milestone underscores Africa’s growing aviation footprint and the importance of intra-African connectivity in driving economic integration.
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Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Hussaini Ibrahim 