Nigeria, Brazil to operationalize direct flights operation

In line with the directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, 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.

The strategic meeting follows the MoU signed between the two nations in 2018, aimed at boosting air connectivity and economic cooperation.

During the discussions, both envoys stressed the need for new BASA arrangements to reflect current realities in the aviation world. The 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 the 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,” he stated. However, he also noted the need to finalise the Open Skies Agreement to fully enable the proposed flights.

The aviation 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,” the minister said.

To ensure the smooth finalisation of the initiative, the minister said both countries have agreed to set up committees to draft and finalise new BASA arrangements. The ambassador also extended an invitation to the minister to visit Brazil for the formal signing of the agreement, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria-Brazil relations.

He disclosed that two Nigerian airlines, Air Peace and Caverton Air, have been designated to operate on this route, further underscoring the strategic partnership between the two nations, saying that with the operationalization of this agreement, the Nigerian aviation industry is set for enhanced growth and expanded international reach.

The minister reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to advancing bilateral aviation agreements that promote economic development and connectivity.