Nigerian carrier ValueJet will broaden its business horizons with the launch of its inaugural direct flight to Banjul, The Gambia, from Lagos, Nigeria, on May 15th, 2025. ValueJet’s Lagos-Banjul route provides a vital air link between Nigeria and the Gambia and is aimed at boosting both West African countries’ growing tourism industry and strengthening economic ties.
The Flight Deck reports that ValueJet’s flights to Banjul will depart Lagos on Thursdays and Sundays at 9:00 pm and arrive at 11:30 pm. Return flights will depart Banjul on Mondays and Fridays at 12:30 am and arrive in Lagos at 5:00 am. The carrier has announced it will operate these flights from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport’s new terminal in Lagos.
According to Capt, the new Lagos-Banjul route is just another threshold in ValueJet’s mega bid to connect more destinations within West Africa. Omololu Majekodunmi, Managing Director and Accountable Manager of ValueJet, the route launch aligns with the airline’s vision to enhance travel options and connectivity within West Africa.
The Lagos-Banjul route promises to be a pivotal force that will transcend West African connectivity and be a gateway between Nigeria’s budding tourism sector and Gambia’s rich tourism sector. The Gambia is leveraging its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality as a lure, and as such, the ensuing increased connectivity the new route will afford is expected to facilitate a surge in tourism in both countries as opportunities for cultural exchange and adventure tourism open up.
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ValueJet’s Lagos-Banjul route promises positive implications for Nigeria’s and Africa’s bid for interconnectivity, advanced and efficient travel technology, and tourism. The route’s direct connection eliminates the need for time-consuming layovers, making travel between the two countries more efficient and accessible.
The service also aligns with the broader goals of the African Union’s Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), which seeks to liberalise and unify Africa’s airspace, fostering regional integration and economic growth.
Plus, ValueJet’s fleet expansion, including adopting modern aircraft like the CRJ700, demonstrates a commitment to advanced travel technology. The CRJ700 offers improved fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and the ability to operate from shorter runways, crucial for expanding access to more destinations across Nigeria and West Africa. Also, the integration of Fly-by-Wire technology in their aircraft streamlines flight operations, enhances safety, and reduces pilot workload, contributing to more reliable and efficient services.
The new route will also provide a vital boost to trade in Africa. Increased air traffic can stimulate demand for Nigerian hotels, tour operators, and related services as travel agents develop new regional packages. The direct link fosters trade and cultural exchanges, further enhancing Nigeria’s attractiveness as a regional tourism hub.
By bridging distances and making travel more reliable, ValueJet’s expansion could inspire other airlines to launch similar routes, multiplying the positive impact on Nigeria’s tourism sector over time.