Domestic air travel in Nigeria has received a major boost with the resumption of flights between Ibadan and Abuja. Air Peace and Overland Airways have restarted scheduled services following the reopening of Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan.
This development restores direct air access between Oyo State and Nigeria’s capital. The move arrives just ahead of the busy holiday travel season. Travelers now enjoy faster, safer, and more reliable connections between the two cities.
The restored route strengthens tourism, business travel, and regional economic activity.
Air Peace Relaunches Daily Ibadan–Abuja Flights
Air Peace has confirmed daily return flights between Ibadan and Abuja starting December 24, 2025. The airline paused operations during the airport’s closure for extensive upgrades.
The carrier has already opened bookings with competitive fares starting from ₦95,000. This pricing strategy targets both leisure and corporate travelers during the festive period.
Air Peace continues to prioritize domestic connectivity as part of its expansion plan. The airline aims to reduce travel time between major Nigerian cities while maintaining affordability.
Expanded Fleet Supports Reliable Operations
Air Peace has strengthened its fleet with the addition of a third Embraer 190 aircraft. This expansion improves scheduling flexibility and operational reliability.
The airline is also resuming flights to Warri and increasing frequencies on other domestic routes. These moves respond to rising passenger demand across Nigeria.
Improved fleet capacity allows Air Peace to maintain consistent service during high-traffic seasons.
Overland Airways Returns with Structured Weekly Schedule
Overland Airways has also resumed Ibadan–Abuja flights, starting December 23, 2025. The airline will operate three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Overland has long served this route and retains strong brand loyalty among business travelers. The airline will deploy its modern 88-seat Embraer 175 aircraft.
The aircraft features premium and economy cabins, offering comfort and efficiency for short-haul travel.
Improved Passenger Experience on Domestic Routes
Overland’s Embraer 175 offers modern cabin design and quieter engines. These features enhance comfort and reduce travel fatigue.
Passengers benefit from improved seating layouts, efficient boarding, and reliable departure times. These improvements support business travelers who value punctuality.
The combined schedules from both airlines give passengers greater choice and flexibility.
Tourism Gains Momentum in Oyo State
The restored air link significantly benefits tourism in Oyo State. Ibadan ranks among Nigeria’s most culturally rich cities. The city offers museums, historic sites, cultural centers, and festivals.
Tourists traveling from Abuja can now reach Ibadan in under an hour. This convenience encourages weekend trips and cultural tourism.
Ibadan also serves as a gateway to other South-West destinations, including heritage towns and nature attractions.
Abuja Access Strengthens Leisure and Government Travel
Abuja remains a major destination for leisure, government, and conference travel. The restored route allows residents of Oyo State easier access to national events and attractions.
Visitors can now combine cultural tourism in Ibadan with business or leisure stays in Abuja. This dual-destination appeal supports longer travel itineraries.
Hotels, tour operators, and transport services in both cities benefit from increased passenger flow.
Business Travel Sees Major Advantages
Business travel stands to gain significantly from the resumed flights. Ibadan hosts educational institutions, manufacturing centers, and commercial hubs.
Direct air access allows executives and professionals to attend meetings without long road journeys. Faster travel improves productivity and reduces travel stress.
The route also supports intergovernmental engagement and corporate expansion across regions.
Conferences and Corporate Events Receive a Boost
The restored connectivity supports Nigeria’s growing meetings and events sector. Professionals can now attend conferences, workshops, and seminars more easily.
Abuja hosts many national and international events throughout the year. Ibadan offers academic and cultural conferences that attract regional participation.
Affordable fares make frequent travel more feasible for professionals.
Airport Upgrades Enable Increased Traffic
Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport recently underwent major upgrades. Authorities improved the runway, terminal facilities, and navigational systems.
These improvements increase safety and passenger comfort. The airport can now handle higher traffic volumes and modern aircraft types.
The reopening strengthens South-West Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and regional accessibility.
Government Strategy Supports Aviation Growth
The airport upgrade aligns with national efforts to modernize Nigeria’s aviation sector. Authorities aim to improve domestic connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
Better airports attract airline investment and increase route viability. Improved access also supports tourism diversification beyond major hubs.
Ibadan’s upgraded airport plays a key role in this strategy.
Wider Impact on Nigeria’s Tourism Industry
The resumed flights contribute to Nigeria’s broader tourism recovery. Domestic travel remains a key driver of tourism growth.
Improved connectivity encourages Nigerians to explore cultural destinations within the country. It also supports regional economies and job creation.
Air travel plays a central role in linking tourism markets across Nigeria.
Future Outlook for the Ibadan–Abuja Route
Passenger demand is expected to grow steadily on the Ibadan–Abuja route. Airlines may increase frequencies or add new services based on performance.
Continued investment in infrastructure and fleet expansion will support long-term growth. The route could also attract additional carriers in the future.
Stronger competition would further benefit travelers.
Conclusion
The resumption of Ibadan–Abuja flights marks a major milestone for domestic travel in Nigeria. Air Peace and Overland Airways have restored vital connectivity with increased capacity and modern aircraft.
The development boosts tourism, supports business travel, and strengthens regional integration. Affordable fares and reliable schedules improve access to key cities.
This renewed air link positions Ibadan and Abuja as stronger partners in Nigeria’s tourism and economic growth journey.
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