The Government of Tanzania has announced plans to review its visa policy to make travel easier for Nigerians flying on the country’s national carrier, Air Tanzania, from Lagos to Dar es Salaam.
This commitment was made by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Professor Godius Kahyararara, during the official launch of Air Tanzania’s direct flight service between Nigeria and Tanzania.
Professor Kahyararara explained that the introduction of direct flights was part of Tanzania’s broader vision to enhance connectivity across the African continent. He further assured that the governments of both countries were working together to simplify travel procedures.
“What I can assure you is that within a week, there will be significant improvements in the visa process. This issue has been discussed with our Nigerian and Tanzanian counterparts, and we are determined to resolve it quickly so that the benefits of the direct flight are maximized for both nations,” Kahyararara said.
He emphasized that Nigeria is a key tourism market, with Zanzibar standing out as a favorite destination. According to him, research revealed that many Nigerians often spend extra time reaching Zanzibar through longer routes such as Addis Ababa or Nairobi. With the new direct connection, however, the journey will now take less than five hours.
Speaking at the event, Tanzania’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Selestine Kakele, highlighted the significance of the new air link. He noted that Nigeria, being Africa’s second-largest economy after South Africa, presented vast opportunities for growth in trade, investment, and cultural exchange. “This direct air service will help open up Tanzania to Nigeria and strengthen ties between our two nations,” he added.
On his part, the Chief Executive Officer of Air Tanzania, Engr. Peter Ulanga, underscored the opportunities that the new route presents. He encouraged Nigerian travellers to experience Tanzania’s globally renowned attractions, such as the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar’s beaches, while also celebrating Nigeria’s dynamic culture and entrepreneurial spirit.
Beyond passenger services, Ulanga disclosed that Air Tanzania plans to expand cargo operations, with freighters capable of carrying up to 54 tons. This, he said, would unlock new trade corridors—allowing Nigerian yams and Tanzanian coffee, among other goods, to flow between the two countries, deepening economic cooperation.
“With Lagos now part of our network, Air Tanzania serves 29 destinations across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, including Johannesburg, Nairobi, Dubai, Mumbai, and Guangzhou. This is more than just a flight schedule—it is a rhythm of progress and a shared future for our people,” Ulanga stated.
He added that the service would begin with three weekly flights from Dar es Salaam to Lagos on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with return flights from Lagos on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. “This route is not just about air travel; it is about opening the skies for business, tourism, and cultural exchange between Tanzania and Nigeria,” he concluded.
