By Chinelo Obogo
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has commenced 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. This meeting follows the Memorandum of Understanding signed between both countries in 2018, aimed at boosting air connectivity and economic cooperation.
During the discussions, both envoys emphasised the need for new BASA arrangements to reflect current realities in the aviation world.
Speaking on the importance of the direct flights, Ambassador Garcete highlighted the potential for immediate commencement of flight services, noting that both nations could facilitate four to five 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.
While responding, Keyamo expressed appreciation for the Ambassador’s visit, saying, “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.”
Both countries then agreed to set up committees to draft and finalise a new BASA, with the Ambassador inviting the Minister to visit Brazil for the formal signing of the agreement.
Two Nigerian airlines, Air Peace and Caverton, have been designated to operate on this route, further underscoring the strategic partnership between the two nations.