The Federal Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and an Enhanced Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with the Arab Republic of Egypt.
The MoU was the fallout of a meeting held in Kuala Lampur, Malaysia, by the NigeriaN delegates and the Arab Republic of Egypt, which culminated in the review of the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between the two countries in line with the New Africa Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) BASA template for African countries.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, while speaking at the signing ceremony, described it as a “strategic breakthrough” that reflects the mutual commitment of both countries to strengthening connectivity, facilitating technical exchange, and opening new investment opportunities within their respective aviation sectors.
He said, “This agreement is not only a fulfilment of the engagements we started during ICAN 2024 but also a bold step toward enhancing air connectivity, boosting tourism, promoting trade, and fostering knowledge transfer in aviation management and infrastructure.”
He explained that the enhanced BASA would enable expanded route access and greater operational flexibility for designated carriers from both countries. Simultaneously, the MoU encompasses technical cooperation, training, and infrastructure development initiatives.
On his part, Dr. Badr Abdellatty expressed Egypt’s strong desire to establish a lasting and mutually beneficial relationship with Nigeria, especially in sectors where aviation acts as a catalyst for broader economic growth.
He praised the Minister for his visionary leadership and proactive efforts to modernise Nigeria’s aviation sector, recognising that Egypt regards Nigeria as a strategic partner on the continent.
Both ministers reaffirmed their governments’ commitment to executing the provisions of the agreement in a spirit of mutual respect and shared progress.
The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, including the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kanamni, and representatives from the Egyptian diplomatic mission in Nigeria.
This development contributes to Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to reposition its aviation sector through international cooperation, modern regulatory frameworks, and increased private sector involvement in aviation infrastructure.
