Ethiopian Airlines has described Nigeria as a critical partner in its global operations, saying the country is strategic to its expansion drive.

Speaking in Lagos at the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the airline and 65 years of operating in the country, the General Manager (Nigeria), Ethiopian Airlines, Firihiewot Mekonnen, said the country occupied a special place in the airline’s history and future growth plans.

According to Mekonnen, Nigeria was not just a destination in the airline’s networks but a valued partner in its journey.

She maintained that Nigeria was rich in culture, energy, opportunity and a community that has embraced the East African airline for decades.

She said: “Today, Ethiopian Airlines is more than just an airline, it is a proud symbol of resilience, ambition and success. As we like to say, we are 80 years young because our passion, our drive and our commitment to excellence remain as strong and vibrant as they were on the day of our very first flight.

“While we celebrate how far we have come, we are even more inspired by how far we will go. As we mark this 80-year milestone, we also look ahead with renewed optimism and bold ambition.

“The aviation industry continues to evolve and Ethiopian Airlines remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation, sustainability and delivering exceptional experiences to our valued passengers.”

She described the long-standing connection and relationship with Nigeria as a reflection of strong bilateral ties and mutual trust between the airline and Nigerian passengers, institutions and stakeholders.

She insisted that Nigeria was one of the most important aviation markets in Africa, given its large population, expanding middle class and growing demand for international travel.

For Ethiopian Airlines, she said this had translated into sustained passenger traffic and business opportunities, reinforcing its decision to deepen investments and strengthen connectivity in the country.

She expressed that Lagos remained a major hub in the airline’s West African operations, serving as a gateway for passengers travelling across Africa and beyond.

On the journey of the airline 80 years ago, Mekonnen said the airline began operations on April 8, 1946, with a single flight from Addis Ababa to Cairo using a Douglas C-47 aircraft.

She, however, said that from the modest beginning, the airline has grown into a global aviation powerhouse, operating over 140 aircraft and serving 144 destinations worldwide.