Brasília – Nigeria and Brazil are close to finalizing a Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA). This agreement will enable direct flights between the two countries. Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, and Brazil’s Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filho, initiated the Nigeria Brazil air service deal in Brasília.
Keyamo said, “This is going to be a symbiotic relationship — beneficial to you and beneficial to us.” He added, “Nigeria is the largest country in Africa, and Brazil is one of the biggest in South America…this air-link must commence without delay.”
Technical Group to Finalize Nigeria Brazil Air Service
A technical working group was formed. It will draft and harmonize the BASA for signature within weeks. This step will allow direct flights. The Nigeria Brazil air service is expected to create new opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
Keyamo and Costa Filho also discussed other cooperation areas. These include aviation and aerospace development, knowledge exchange, technical training, infrastructure, and investment.
Mutual Benefits and Next Steps
The ministers emphasized the mutual benefits of the Nigeria Brazil air service. They noted Nigeria’s size in Africa and Brazil’s status in South America. The technical working group’s efforts will strengthen aviation ties and unlock growth opportunities. The agreement should boost economic ties and people-to-people exchanges.
By Kayode Ojo
