A new chapter in Nigeria-Gambia relations opened this month as ValueJet kicked off direct flights from Lagos to Banjul, strengthening trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two countries.
Speaking at the airline’s inaugural ceremony, Managing Director Capt. Omololu Majekodunmi described the milestone as a step toward greater regional integration. He emphasized ValueJet’s commitment to safe, affordable travel, noting that the Lagos-Banjul route is currently the only direct air connection between the two nations.
“This launch reflects our vision to connect West Africa more efficiently,” Capt. Majekodunmi said. “We’re making travel easier and more affordable, with fares starting from just N500,000.”
He added that the new route offers promising opportunities for economic collaboration, especially with Nigeria’s growing business sector and Gambia’s vibrant tourism industry.
The first flight, which took off on May 15, 2025, was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Among the dignitaries in attendance were Gambia’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mohamadou Musa Njie; Director of Tourism Promotions, Tracy Osakwe; and Liaison Officer Ansumana Ceesay. Media personalities Isaac and Nneka Moses of Goge Africa also graced the event.
The Gambian government has expressed strong support for the airline’s regional expansion, commending its efforts to deepen cooperation between both countries.
