ACCRA: Nigerian carrier ValueJet has expanded its footprint across West Africa with the launch of direct flights between Accra, Ghana, and Banjul, The Gambia, marking another milestone in the airline’s regional growth strategy.
The new route, which operates three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, is expected to enhance travel and trade within the sub-region while providing passengers with easier access between two important West African destinations.
The latest expansion builds on the success of ValueJet’s Lagos-Accra service, which commenced daily operations on March 30, connecting Nigeria’s Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos with Kotoka International Airport in Ghana.
With the addition of the Accra-Banjul route, travellers from Lagos can now enjoy a smoother connection through Accra to Banjul, eliminating the need for multiple stopovers that have traditionally made travel between the destinations more complicated and time-consuming.
Speaking on the expansion, Managing Director of ValueJet, Omololu Majekodunmi, said the airline remains committed to connecting people, businesses and opportunities across West Africa.
“Our services are shaping up as a strategic bridge, linking people, markets and opportunities across West Africa,” Majekodunmi said.
He noted that improved air connectivity is essential for facilitating trade, tourism, investment and cultural exchanges among countries in the region.
According to him, ValueJet’s growing network aligns with broader efforts to deepen economic integration and strengthen ties among West African nations.
Banjul, the capital of The Gambia, popularly known as “The Smiling Coast of Africa,” has increasingly become an attractive destination for tourists and business travellers.
The city boasts scenic Atlantic beaches, rich cultural heritage and a growing hospitality industry that continues to attract visitors from across Africa and beyond.
Industry observers believe the direct connection between Accra and Banjul could help stimulate tourism and commercial activities while opening up new opportunities for businesses operating in both countries.
The new service is also expected to benefit Nigerian travellers by creating a more seamless route from Lagos to Banjul through Accra.
Previously, passengers travelling between Nigeria and The Gambia often had to rely on lengthy connections involving multiple airlines and transit points. The expanded network is expected to reduce travel time and improve convenience.
Since entering the regional market, ValueJet has intensified efforts to establish itself as a key player in West African aviation.
The airline’s expansion strategy focuses on linking major commercial centres and emerging tourism destinations, thereby promoting regional integration and supporting economic growth.
Analysts say increased competition among regional carriers could lead to better services, more route options and potentially lower airfares for travellers.
The Accra-Banjul service represents another step in ValueJet’s ambition to become one of the leading airlines connecting West Africa’s commercial and cultural hubs.
As demand for regional air travel continues to grow, the airline is expected to explore additional routes aimed at improving connectivity across the continent.
