ValueJet’s West African expansion seen in Lagos-Banjul flights, May 15

• To tap benefits of tourism, economic ties

Sade Williams/Business a.m.

A West African expansion plan by ValueJet, the Nigerian domestic airline, is being seen by aviation industry analysts in the carrier’s announced direct flight operations between the city of Lagos in Nigeria and Banjul in The Gambia that is set to take to the skies on May 15, 2025.

Available information on the new regional flight suggests that it would offer an essential air link between two of West Africa’s most dynamic regions, providing greater access to The Gambia’s growing tourism industry and facilitating stronger economic ties between the two countries.

According to the airline, the new service would begin from Thursday May 15, 2025, noting specifically that ValueJet flights to Banjul will depart Lagos by 9:00 pm on Thursdays and Sundays and arrive at 11:30 pm, while the return flights will depart Banjul on Mondays and Fridays by 12:30 am and arrive in Lagos at 5.00 am.

The carrier would operate the Lagos-Banjul flights from the Murtala Muhammed International new terminal and has commenced sale of tickets via its website flyvaluejet.com

The new route represents a milestone for the airline in its West African regional drive to raise its flight operations. It is understood that ValueJet has mapped out plans to expand to more destinations in the West Coast.

Omololu Majekodunmi, a flight captain and managing director/accountable manager of ValueJet, said: “The launch of our Lagos to Banjul flight is an important milestone in ValueJet’s vision to promote travel options and connectivity within West Africa. We are proud to play a part in bridging distances and fostering closer economic ties between the people and businesses of Nigeria, The Gambia, and beyond, and opening new opportunities for trade and tourism.”

Majekodunmi said the vision of the airline is built around its commitment to making travel within the continent more accessible and with more options.

This new service is expected to boost regional trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges between Nigeria and The Gambia.

“We are excited to expand our network to the West African coast and offer direct flight services to Gambia. ValueJet remains committed to providing safe, reliable, and convenient air travel across West Africa and this new service is a testament to that commitment,” he added.