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 Memorandum of Understanding signed between the two nations in 2018, aimed at boosting air connectivity and economic cooperation.
The meeting on Monday stemmed from the mutual interests shared by President Bola Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz 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, Garcete highlighted the potential for immediate commencement of flight services, noting that both nations could facilitate 4 to 5 flights per week.
He said: “Introduction of direct flights will spark significant economic growth between our countries.”
Garcete also noted the need to finalise the Open Skies Agreement to fully enable the proposed flights.
The Ambassador also extended an invitation to the Honourable Minister to visit Brazil for the formal signing of the agreement, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria-Brazil relations.
Speaking, Keyamo, said there are numerous similarities between Nigeria and Brazil, and the activation of these flights would not only enhance trade but also strengthen cultural and social exchanges.
To ensure the smooth finalisation of this initiative, both countries have agreed to set up committees to draft and finalise a new BASA arrangements.
Two Nigerian airlines, Air Peace and Caverton, have been designated to operate on this route, further underscoring the strategic partnership between the two nations.
With the operationalisation of this agreement, the Nigerian aviation industry is set for enhanced growth and expanded international reach.
Keyamo, however, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to advancing bilateral aviation agreements that promote economic development and connectivity.