In line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR,
the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo
SAN, has commenced high-level discussions with the Brazilian Ambassador to
Nigeria, Carlos Garcete, to activate the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA)
and initiate direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil. This strategic meeting
follows the MoU signed between the two nations in 2018, aimed at boosting air
connectivity and economic cooperation.
According to the Special Adviser, Media and Communications to
the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Tunde Moshood said during
the discussions, both envoys emphasized the need for new BASA arrangements to
reflect current realities in the aviation world.
This meeting stems from the mutual interests shared by President
Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva during a meeting in
Addis Ababa in February 2024, where they agreed to reinitiate the BASA
arrangements, recognizing the cultural and economic ties between Nigeria and
Brazil.
Speaking on the importance of the direct flights, Ambassador
Garcete highlighted the potential for immediate commencement of flight
services, noting that both nations could facilitate 4 to 5 flights per week.
"The introduction of direct flights will spark significant economic growth
between our countries," Garcete stated. However, he also noted the need to
finalize the Open Skies Agreement to fully enable the proposed flights.
The Honourable Minister while expressing appreciation for the
Ambassador's visit, echoed the optimism about the potential economic impact of
the BASA. "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," Keyamo said.
To ensure the smooth finalization of this initiative, both
countries have agreed to set up committees to draft and finalize a new BASA
arrangements. The Ambassador also extended an invitation to the Honourable
Minister to visit Brazil for the formal signing of the agreement, marking a
significant milestone in Nigeria-Brazil relations.
Two Nigerian airlines, Air Peace and Caverton, have been
designated to operate on this route, further underscoring the strategic
partnership between the two nations. With the operationalization of this
agreement, the Nigerian aviation industry is set for enhanced growth and
expanded international reach.
The Honourable Minister reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to advancing
bilateral aviation agreements that promote economic development and
connectivity.