Nigeria and Brazil are set to operationalize direct flights as part of the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA). The initiative, aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s vision, is spearheaded by Festus Keyamo SAN, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development. This development follows high-level discussions between Keyamo and Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, Carlos Garcete, marking a pivotal step in implementing the MoU signed between the two nations in 2018.
The meeting underscores a mutual commitment to revitalizing BASA arrangements to better reflect the evolving aviation landscape. This strategic dialogue is rooted in the shared interests of President Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who first discussed these ambitions during their February 2024 meeting in Addis Ababa. Both leaders recognized the historical cultural and economic ties binding Nigeria and Brazil, and they expressed a desire to foster closer collaboration through enhanced air travel.
Ambassador Garcete articulated the immediate potential for launching direct flights between the two countries, estimating that up to four to five flights per week could be operational. He stated, “The introduction of direct flights will spark significant economic growth between our countries,” emphasizing the transformative impact this connectivity could have on trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. However, he noted the necessity of finalizing the Open Skies Agreement to fully enable the proposed flight operations.
Keyamo expressed his appreciation for the Ambassador’s visit, sharing his optimism regarding the potential economic benefits of activating direct flights. He remarked on the many similarities between Nigeria and Brazil, stating that enhanced connectivity would not only facilitate trade but also strengthen cultural and social interactions between the two nations.
To ensure a seamless implementation of this initiative, both countries have agreed to establish committees tasked with drafting and finalizing the new BASA arrangements. Ambassador Garcete extended a formal invitation to Minister Keyamo to visit Brazil for the signing of the agreement, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria-Brazil relations.
The operationalization of direct flights will be bolstered by the involvement of two Nigerian airlines, Air Peace and Caverton, which have been designated to operate on this route. This move not only highlights the strategic partnership between Nigeria and Brazil but also positions the Nigerian aviation industry for enhanced growth and expanded international reach.
Keyamo reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to advancing bilateral aviation agreements that promote economic development and connectivity, reflecting the broader objectives of the Tinubu administration. By improving air travel infrastructure and fostering international partnerships, Nigeria aims to leverage its aviation sector as a catalyst for economic transformation.
In conclusion, the activation of direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil represents a crucial step toward strengthening the ties between these two nations. As both governments work diligently to finalize the necessary arrangements, the anticipated flights promise to facilitate greater economic integration, cultural exchange, and cooperation in various sectors. The future of Nigeria-Brazil relations looks promising, with direct flights serving as a bridge to a more connected and prosperous partnership.
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