Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser have met in the Arabian country to discuss the enhancement of the current Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between the two countries.

Keyamo also met with the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Abdulaziz Al-Duailej to discuss the same matter.

A statement on Tuesday by the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the minister, Tunde Moshood said that the separate meetings, which took place in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, also aimed at ensuring operational efficiency ahead of the 2026 Hajj operations.

Keyamo was accompanied by the Director-General, Civil Aviation (DGCA), Chris Najomo and key directors from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.

The statement hinted that the discussions were also on diplomatic matters aimed at improving cooperation between both countries in the aviation sector.

Both sides, Moshood said deliberated extensively on the need to review the existing BASA framework to reflect present-day realities and evolving dynamics in the global aviation industry.

According to him, both parties examined the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2015, particularly as it relates to the sharing formula for the annual airlift of pilgrims by designated airlines from Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.

He insisted that the review was intended to ensure fairness, efficiency and mutual benefit for both countries.

Other key issues discussed included the allocation of slots to Nigerian designated carriers (flag carriers) for the 2026 Hajj operations, as well as the determination of the percentage of pilgrims to be airlifted by airlines from both countries.

The meetings also addressed operational concerns affecting Nigerian airlines, with a focus on enhancing their performance and ensuring seamless Hajj operations this year.

The statement added: “The engagements were marked by frank, constructive and productive exchanges, with both sides demonstrating a strong commitment to deepening aviation ties and resolving all outstanding issues in a mutually beneficial manner.

“The minister expressed appreciation to the Saudi authorities for their continued cooperation and support, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to upholding international aviation standards and fostering strategic partnerships.”

He emphasised that decisions reached during the meetings, particularly those concerning the 2026 Hajj operations, had been communicated to Nigeria’s designated airlines for prompt implementation.