….says direct flight will benefit Nigerians more
The Equatorial Guinea Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Franciso E. N. Mangue has given reason for the delay in commencement of direct flight between his country and Nigeria despite existence of a memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to that effect.
Mangue said delay by the aviation authorities of both countries to decide on preferred airlines to fly the route is causing the delay.
The envoy noted that lack of direct flight is hampering investment and tourism activities between citizens of both countries.
Equatorial Guinea ambassador to Nigeria said there is an existing agreement on ground and he is hoping that it would be explored for the benefit of both countries.
NewsSpecng gathered that there are over 3,000 registered Nigerians who are into one business or the other in Equatorial Guinea and over 300 Equatorial Guinea students schooling in Nigeria alone.
The envoy who was amazed that Nigeria and his country was yet to address the direct flight issues, said direct flight between both countries will be of a tremendous benefit.
He said direct flight between both countries is between 25 minutes to 55 minutes. However, the lack of direct flight has made it very cumbersome and much time consuming as travellers would have to face stop overs in other countries before arriving Nigeria or Equatorial Guinea, as the case may be.
“When there is direct flight, it takes about 45 minutes from Abuja to Equitorial Guinea, about 25 mimutrs from Port Harcourt and 55 minutes from Lagos”, he said.
Mangue argued that Nigeria will benefit more if there are direct flights between both countries.
This move, he stressed will in return boost the economies and strengthen relationship between both countries.
“Agreement for direct flight has been signed by Equitorial Guinea and Nigeria but no direct flight for now.
“The major problem why there are no direct flights is because both countries have failed to identify four airlines each that will fly the route.
“I have been here for the past 10 months and I am yet to see my family because travelling to Equatorial Guinea from Nigeria is very demanding.”
According to the ambassador, “the solution is to speak directly to the CEOs of these airlines to see the need for direct flights into both countries and the benefits attached.”
