Nigeria and Brazil are making significant strides in their efforts to establish direct flight connections, a move that promises to strengthen ties between the two countries.

Discussions between Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, Carlos Garcete, are aimed at activating the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) to kickstart direct flights between the nations.

These talks follow up on a 2018 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) designed to enhance air connectivity and deepen economic cooperation.

With the support of President Bola Tinubu, these negotiations build on conversations held between him and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in Addis Ababa in February 2024.

Both leaders agreed on the need to revive BASA, recognizing the shared cultural and economic interests between Nigeria and Brazil.

Tunde Moshood, the special adviser to the aviation minister, confirmed that the discussions have been centered around updating BASA to align with today’s global aviation standards.

Ambassador Garcete underscored the importance of swift action, saying, “There is potential for immediate commencement of flight services, with both countries possibly facilitating four to five flights per week.”

Garcete also emphasized the economic benefits of launching direct flights but stressed the need to finalize the Open Skies Agreement to ensure seamless operations.

Minister Keyamo expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “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.”

To move things forward, both nations have agreed to form committees to finalize updated BASA terms.

Ambassador Garcete also invited Minister Keyamo to visit Brazil for the formal signing of the agreement, marking a significant step in the partnership between the two countries.

Air Peace and Caverton, two Nigerian airlines, have been designated to operate flights on this route, signaling a major boost to Nigeria’s aviation sector.

The successful implementation of this agreement is expected to enhance Nigeria’s international connectivity and solidify its ties with Brazil.

ROAMAN NEWS