Senate demands direct Nigeria-China flights

The Senate has demanded direct flights between Nigeria and China, urging the Federal Government to renegotiate Nigeria's Bilateral Air Service Agreement with China unless reciprocal rights for Nigerian airlines are granted. Senate Leader Mohammed Monguno, in a motion sponsored by him and seconded by Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, expressed concern that the agreement has not delivered the expected reciprocal benefits for Nigerian airlines.

He highlighted that bilateral trade between the two countries reached $18bn in the first half of 2025, a 25% increase year-on-year, and emphasized the need for stronger indigenous airlines and the revival of a national carrier. Monguno also pointed out that Nigeria's growing population and economic ties with China, including a Nigerian diaspora in the country, could benefit from improved direct air connectivity.

Ningi raised concerns over illegal mining activities by Chinese nationals in Nigeria's solid minerals sector and called for stronger government oversight. He also urged the Federal Government to secure equivalent opportunities for Nigerian airlines in the Chinese market. The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, supported the call for a national airline, arguing that it would improve connectivity, retain foreign exchange, and strengthen Nigeria's position in the global aviation industry.