Emirates to suspend Nigeria flights over 'blocked funds'

Emirates Airline has announced its decision to suspend all flights to and from Nigeria from September 1 "to limit further losses" over "blocked funds".

In a statement posted on their official website, the Dubai-based carrier said they had "made considerable efforts to initiate dialogue with the relevant authorities due to ongoing challenges in repatriating funds" but had to make "the difficult decision" as there was "no progress" in finding"a viable solution".

The airline regretted the inconvenience caused to their customers, but stressed that the "circumstances were beyond their control".

They added that they will "re-evaluate" the decision if there are "any positive developments in the coming days regarding the blocked finds in Nigeria".

Emirates said they will work towards helping customers "make alternative travel arrangements wherever possible" or provide them with full refund.

"We remain keen to serve Nigeria, and our operations provide much needed connectivity for Nigerian travellers, providing access to trade and tourism opportunities to Dubai, and to our broader network of over 130 destinations," their statement said.