The arrangement will take effect when Etihad begins its own services to the two cities in March 2027, the airline said.

Under the agreement, passengers arriving in Lagos or Accra on Etihad flights can connect to Ibom Air services to Abuja, Uyo, Port Harcourt, Calabar and Enugu. Connections will also be available between Accra and Abuja, and Accra and Uyo. Passengers will be able to book their entire journey on a single ticket, with baggage checked through to their final destination.

The agreement adds Uyo and Calabar in southern Nigeria to the destinations available alongside Abuja, Port Harcourt and Enugu through single-ticket bookings with Etihad. The connections will cater to passengers travelling for business, visiting family or exploring the country.

Arik De, Etihad Airways Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, said: “Our ambitions in Africa are long-term, and Nigeria sits at the centre of them. Ibom Air has built a strong domestic network from its base in Uyo, and partnerships with airlines that know their own markets are how we grow on the continent. Having this in place before our Accra and Lagos flights begin next March means we arrive in the region already connected to the cities beyond them.”

George Uriesi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, said: “This agreement marks a significant milestone in our journey to becoming a truly world-class African regional airline. It enables international travellers to access the cities we serve through a single booking, enhancing connectivity and convenience. Additionally, it positions Ibom Air as the key domestic and regional connection for Etihad Airways’ operations into Nigeria and Ghana from next year.”

Etihad will launch its nonstop services from Abu Dhabi to the region in March 2027, with daily flights to Lagos beginning on March 23 and four flights a week to Accra starting on March 24. Tickets combining the networks of both airlines will go on sale from November 3.