Nigeria and Brazil are set to initiate direct flights between both nations under the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) in a major development aimed at enhancing air connectivity and fostering stronger economic ties.
This follows high-level discussions between Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, and the Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, Carlos Garcete, as per the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The discussions mark a strategic push to activate the BASA, which was formalized in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two countries in 2018.
The renewed focus on the agreement comes after the mutual interests expressed by President Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva during their February 2024 meeting in Addis Ababa.
Both leaders had agreed on the need to reignite air travel arrangements between their nations, recognizing the deep cultural and economic links.
The meeting emphasized the need to update BASA arrangements to align with modern aviation realities. Both countries have committed to setting up committees to draft and finalize the agreement.
Ambassador Garcete indicated that there is potential for the immediate commencement of 4 to 5 weekly flights between Nigeria and Brazil, signalling a robust opportunity for economic growth and stronger bilateral ties.
Finalization of the Open Skies Agreement was flagged as essential for enabling seamless air travel between the two countries.
Ambassador Garcete and Minister Keyamo underscored the profound economic and cultural benefits of activating the direct flights.
Minister Keyamo emphasized that “there are numerous similarities between Nigeria and Brazil, and the activation of these flights will not only enhance trade but also strengthen cultural and social exchanges.”
Two Nigerian airlines, Air Peace and Caverton, have been designated to operate the new route, marking a significant boost for Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The direct flights are expected to foster economic growth by increasing trade opportunities, tourism, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.
Both parties have agreed to form committees to finalize a modern BASA, with an invitation extended to Minister Keyamo to visit Brazil for the formal signing of the agreement.
Experts say the move marks a key milestone in Nigeria-Brazil relations and sets the stage for expanded cooperation in aviation and other sectors.
As Nigeria’s aviation industry continues to evolve, the operationalization of the agreement is expected to enhance its global connectivity, open new economic avenues, and further strengthen Nigeria’s position as a key player in international air travel.
Officials say the collaboration represents a significant leap forward in Nigeria’s commitment to advancing bilateral aviation agreements.
