United Airlines Expands African Footprint With Enhanced Connectivity

United Airlines Strengthens African Presence with Daily Nigeria-Washington Flights

On December 4, 2025, United Airlines, a leading U.S. carrier, commenced daily direct flights from Nigeria to Washington, marking a significant step in its African expansion strategy. In a virtual interview, Oluwatomi Bola-Sadipe, United’s Country Sales Manager for Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa, and Thorsten Lettnin, Director of Sales for Continental Europe, Middle East, Africa, Israel, and India, shared insights on the airline’s strategies, challenges, and future plans.

United Airlines’ 2025 Vision for Africa

Lettnin: “In 2025, United Airlines will offer non-stop services to 44 destinations in the Atlantic region, the highest in our history. Africa has been a major focus in this expansion. While we didn’t operate any routes to Africa pre-2019, by 2025, we will fly to six African destinations, including Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Morocco. This growth underscores our commitment to offering our customers more choices and opportunities.”

Africa: A Strategic Priority

Bola-Sadipe: “Africa is integral to United Airlines’ business. Adding Dakar, Senegal, to our routes in May 2025 and Marrakech, Morocco, in October 2024 demonstrates our dedication to connecting Africa with the world. These expansions highlight Africa’s growing importance to United.”

United Airlines has also prioritized its Nigerian operations by deploying the advanced Dreamliner 787-8 aircraft, offering world-class services through cabins like Polaris, Premium Plus, Economy Plus, and Economy. This move caters to a wide range of travelers, from business professionals to families.

Daily Flights from Nigeria to Washington

From December 4, 2025, to February 14, 2026, United Airlines will operate daily flights from Nigeria to Washington. These night departures from Nigeria ensure early morning arrivals in the U.S., making it convenient for travelers to connect to over 70 destinations from Washington D.C.

Bola-Sadipe: “This winter schedule supports leisure, business, and medical travelers. By offering direct flights with consistent premium products, we are meeting the needs of the Nigerian market while reinforcing our commitment to the region.”

Navigating Challenges in the Nigerian Market

United Airlines recognizes the economic challenges facing Nigeria, including high inflation. Despite these difficulties, passenger traffic has been strong, prompting the airline to expand its services.

Bola-Sadipe: “Inflation has affected passenger preferences, but our Dreamliner 787 caters to diverse needs. From business travelers in Polaris to families in Economy, we provide competitive pricing and excellent service to ensure a seamless travel experience.”

Formula for Success in Africa

United Airlines credits its success in Africa to offering consistent, high-quality products and leveraging market intelligence.

Lettnin: “To thrive in Africa, we ensure 100% product consistency and the best connectivity through hubs like Washington. This approach allows us to meet customer expectations and compete effectively in the aviation sector.”

Commitment to Excellence

United Airlines continues to invest in Africa by addressing market needs and expanding its footprint. With state-of-the-art aircraft, top-tier services, and a customer-centric approach, the airline is positioning itself as a leader in connecting Africa to the United States.

For more updates on United Airlines’ African routes and services, stay tuned.