Firiehiwot Mekonnen, the general manager (Nigeria) of Ethiopian Airlines, has described Nigeria as a valued partner, not merely a destination in its global journey.

Ms Mekonnen spoke on Wednesday at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, during celebrations marking the airline’s 80 years of uninterrupted operations.

She said Nigeria remained central to the airline’s journey since 1960, when Ethiopian Airlines first began scheduled operations into the country.

According to her, the long-standing relationship reflects mutual trust, shared growth and sustained collaboration within Africa’s aviation sector.

Recounting its history, Ms Mekonnen noted that eight decades of steady expansion transformed the airline from a modest regional carrier into a global aviation powerhouse. She recalled the airline’s inaugural flight on April 8, 1946, using a single Douglas C-47 aircraft from Addis Ababa to Cairo.

“Eighty years later, that humble beginning has grown into a network spanning 144 destinations across five continents,” she said.

She added that the airline now operates a fleet exceeding 140 modern aircraft, positioning it among leading global carriers.

Ms Mekonnen highlighted the airline’s early presence in Nigeria, launching operations barely one month after the country gained independence in 1960. She described this milestone as a symbol of early African connectivity and a commitment to linking key markets across the continent.

She restated the airline’s enduring connection with Nigerians through periods of growth, economic shifts and operational challenges.

“Nigeria has been an important part of our story since 1960,” she said, expressing gratitude for celebrating the anniversary in Lagos. We have never stopped flying through every season, reflecting resilience, consistency and our dedication to serving the Nigerian market,” Ms Mekonnen added.

She noted that the airline’s continuous service underscored the strength of its partnership with Nigerian institutions and passengers.

“That enduring connection is a testament to the deep bond we share with the people of Nigeria,” she said.

Ms Mekonnen described Nigeria as “not just a destination but a valued partner rich in culture, energy and economic opportunity”. She stressed that the Nigerian market had significantly contributed to passenger traffic growth and regional connectivity over the decades.

Ms Mekonnen said the airline had expanded beyond passenger transport into a diversified aviation group with multiple specialised services. These include an aviation university focused on training skilled professionals and a maintenance, repair and overhaul facility supporting fleet efficiency.

She added that the airline’s growth also covered airport development initiatives and hospitality investments such as the Skylight Hotel. Other services include world-class in-flight catering and efficient ground handling operations across its network.

(NAN)