The inaugural flight touched down at Lagos airport at 12:30 a.m. on Thursday, carrying dignitaries from both nations. The airline has committed to prioritizing safety and punctuality in its operations.
During the launch event, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, expressed his enthusiasm for the new service. Keyamo, represented by Mr. Hassan Ejibunu, a Director in the Ministry, noted that this addition reflects the increasing number of foreign airlines initiating services to Nigeria over the past 18 months under the current administration.
He emphasized that this development would generate employment opportunities for Nigerians and enhance the aviation sector's contribution to the nation's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Keyamo assured that the Ministry would continue to support foreign investments in the aviation sector, highlighting the positive ripple effects this would have on Nigeria.
He remarked, “Today marks a significant milestone for me, as it represents another achievement in overcoming the challenges of direct air connectivity between Nigeria and Italy, especially following the departure of Alitalia Air from Nigeria several years ago. The new direct flight from Milan to Lagos will facilitate seamless travel from Nigeria to Italy and beyond.”
The initiation of flight operations by NEOS S.P.A Air to Nigeria marks a significant milestone in aviation history. This development was made possible when the Italian Aeronautical Authorities designated the airline for the Nigeria-Italy route.
Subsequently, Messrs Skymaster Achievers International Services Ltd., the airline's local partners in Nigeria, facilitated the follow-up on this designation, with the diplomatic backing of Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Italian Embassy in Nigeria.
Additionally, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, characterized the launch of the airline's direct service to Nigeria as an "official re-launch of the Nigeria-Italy Airlinks." Mr. Alex Kefas, the Director of the European Affairs Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented the Minister at the event.
He emphasized that Nigeria is home to many successful businesspeople in Italy, highlighting that this direct flight will enhance trade opportunities for imports and exports between Nigeria, Italy, and other European nations.