Following its inability to repatriate funds from Nigeria due to persistent foreign exchange scarcity, Emirates Airlines has announced the suspension of flight operations in Nigeria, starting from September 1, 2022.
According to the airline, the suspension became necessary after all efforts to repatriate realised revenue from Nigeria failed despite a series of complaints.
It said this concern has been raised on many occasions with officials of the Federal Ministry of Aviation, as well as those at the finance ministry.
International airlines operating in Nigeria have struggled to repatriate revenue due to CBN’s failure to make dollars available for airlines looking to repatriate revenue to their home country. Presently, foreign airlines are looking to repatriate about $600 million in blocked funds.
“We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused to our customers, however, the circumstances are beyond our control at this stage. We will be working to help impacted customers make alternative travel arrangements wherever possible.”
It, however, noted that should there be any positive developments in the coming days regarding Emirates’ blocked funds in Nigeria, the airline would, of course, re-evaluate its decision.
“We remain keen to serve Nigeria, and our operations provide much-needed connectivity for Nigerian travellers, providing access to trade and tourism opportunities to Dubai, and to our broader network of over 130 destinations,” the global carrier stated.