The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has engaged in discussions with the Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, Carlos Garcete, to activate the Bilateral Air Service Agreement between both countries and establish direct flights. This move aims to enhance air connectivity and economic cooperation, following a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2018.
During the meeting, both parties emphasized the necessity of updating the BASA arrangements to align with current aviation standards. The initiative was inspired by the shared interests of President Bola Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who agreed to reinitiate the BASA arrangements during a meeting in Addis Ababa in February 2024.
The Brazilian Ambassador highlighted the potential for immediate commencement of flight services, proposing four to five flights per week between the two nations. He emphasized that direct flights would significantly boost economic growth between Nigeria and Brazil.
To facilitate the proposed flights, finalizing the Open Skies Agreement was deemed essential. The aviation minister expressed optimism about the economic benefits of the BASA and acknowledged the similarities between Nigeria and Brazil, foreseeing enhanced trade and cultural exchanges with the activation of direct flights.
Air Peace and Caverton have been designated as the airlines to operate the route, showcasing the strategic partnership between Nigeria and Brazil. Committees will be established by both countries to draft and finalize new BASA arrangements, with plans for the minister to visit Brazil for the formal signing of the agreement, marking a milestone in Nigeria-Brazil relations.
The operationalization of this agreement signifies a step towards enhanced growth and expanded international reach for the Nigerian aviation industry.