South Africa has requested fifth freedom traffic rights from Nigeria and an additional airline designation to operate direct flights between Cape Town and Lagos.

The approval, if granted, is expected to reshape bilateral air connectivity between the countries and expand travel options for passengers.

A statement issued on Wednesday by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, revealed that the request was made on Tuesday on the sidelines of the ongoing International Civil Aviation Negotiation (ICAN) 2025 Summit in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Fifth freedom rights allow an airline from one country to carry passengers between two foreign countries as part of a service that originates or terminates in its home country.

According to the statement, South Africa also sought approval for Airlink, one of its flag carriers, to operate flights on the Cape Town–Lagos route, alongside South African Airways (SAA), which already holds designation under the existing Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between both nations.

The Nigerian delegation, led by Keyamo, included the Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, and senior officials from the Ministry of Aviation and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

Moshood noted that the Nigerian team is currently reviewing South Africa’s request in line with national interest and the reciprocity principles that guide international air service agreements.

Speaking during the bilateral negotiations, Keyamo reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fostering mutually beneficial aviation partnerships, stressing that all discussions at ICAN 2025 would be assessed on equity, market balance, and their potential impact on the national economy.

“We welcome every opportunity to enhance air connectivity, but Nigeria will only grant additional rights where there is clear mutual benefit and fairness to our local carriers,” Keyamo stated.

He explained that Nigeria’s active participation at ICAN 2025 reflects the government’s broader vision to strengthen aviation diplomacy, deepen regional cooperation, and expand market access for Nigerian airlines.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s delegation is also holding talks with representatives from Scandinavia, Hong Kong, and Tanzania to review existing BASAs aimed at boosting trade, tourism, and investment through improved air links.