ValueJet, Nigeria’s first fly-for-value airline, has reached a new altitude in its mission to redefine aviation. The airline has successfully combined cutting-edge generative technology with a deep commitment to national pride. First, ValueJet cemented its position as the Official Airline Partner of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Super Eagles. Recently, they raised the bar for air travel by launching VIKI, Africa’s most advanced AI-driven passenger assistant.
The alliance between ValueJet and the NFF is more than a corporate sponsorship; it is a strategic partnership rooted in shared values of resilience and excellence. The formal agreement entered in March 2025 has seen the airline transport Nigeria’s national teams across the continent. The relationship was solidified by the airline’s professional handling of the 2024 “Libya airport saga” which earned immense public respect for ValueJet. The NFF has frequently cited ValueJet’s sincerity and commitment to the safety of the Super Eagles as a cornerstone of their continued collaboration.
By 2026, this partnership has evolved into a seamless logistics operation that ensures the Super Eagles arrive at their destinations refreshed and ready for competition.Capt. Omololu Majekodunmi, Chairman of ValueJet, commented on the relationship with the super eagles, saying;
“Seeing the Super Eagles soar to victory after our partnership is a testament to the power of great collaboration. We are proud to be their official airline partner and look forward to many more wins ahead.”
In a move that outsmarts traditional domestic service models, ValueJet has introduced VIKI, a sophisticated Generative AI customer service assistant. Launched in January 2026, VIKI is designed to offer a “digital concierge” experience that is available 24/7 across multiple platforms, including WhatsApp, Telegram, and the ValueJet web portal.
Unlike standard chatbots, VIKI uses natural language processing to personalize bookings by analysing travel history to suggest preferred seating and routes. It automatically completes check-in processes through simple voice or text commands. It also provides real-time updates of flight status, weather alerts at destinations, and baggage tracking information. The most exciting aspect of VIKI is that it communicates fluently, not just in English, but also in major Nigerian languages, ensuring inclusivity for all travelers.
This technological leap readily contributes to ValueJet’s track record of efficiency and punctuality. This is so because VIKI AI streamlines ground operations and passenger boarding positioning ValueJet as a reliable airline in the Nigerian Aviation industry and beyond.
The airline’s progress is also measured by its physical footprint. ValueJet continues to lead the market by being the first and primary commercial operator at the Gateway International Airport (GWI) in Iperu-Remo, Ogun State. This bold choice has unlocked a vital agro-industrial corridor, providing a much-needed alternative for travelers in the Sagamu and Abeokuta axis.
Operating a modern fleet of CRJ900 and CRJ1000 aircraft, ValueJet combines fuel efficiency with a premium cabin experience. The choice of these aircraft types reflects the airline’s commitment to sustainability and operational reliability. These two factors have earned it the “Reliable Airline of the Year” accolade at the most recent Nigerian Aviation (NIGAV) Awards.
As ValueJet looks toward the remainder of 2026, the focus remains on scaling the VIKI AI ecosystem to include in-flight “smart” services and expanding its reach across West Africa and beyond. The airline is not merely moving people from point A to point B; it is building a tech-enabled community of travelers who feel a sense of ownership and pride in a truly Nigerian brand.
Conclusively, the synergy between the NFF partnership and the VIKI AI launch proves that ValueJet is no longer just a “fly-for-value” airline, it is championing a new, reliable, and technology-driven era in African aviation.
Samuel Agboola is a member of the editorial team of TheScript Newspapers.
