Direct Flights Between Nigeria and Brazil: BASA Launch
In accordance with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive, Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has begun discussions with Carlos Garcete, the Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, to activate the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) and begin direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil.
Tunde Moshood, Keyamo’s Special Adviser for Media and Communications, stated on Monday that the meeting followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries in 2018 to improve aviation connectivity and economic ties.
During the negotiations, both envoys underlined the importance of new BASA arrangements that reflect modern aviation realities.
This summit was prompted by President Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s common interests during a February 2024 encounter in Addis Ababa. They decided to renew the BASA agreements, recognizing Nigeria and Brazil’s cultural and economic links.
Speaking about the necessity of direct flights, Ambassador Garcete emphasized the possibility of instant air services, stating that both countries could accommodate 4 to 5 flights each 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.
The aviation minister while expressing appreciation for the Ambassador’s visit, echoed the optimism about the potential economic impact of the BASA. “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,” the Minister said. To ensure the smooth finalisation of this initiative, both countries have agreed to set up committees to draft and finalise new BASA arrangements.
The ambassador also extended an invitation to the Keyamo to visit Brazil for the formal signing of the agreement, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria-Brazil relations.
Two Nigerian airlines, Air Peace and Caverton, have been designated to fly on this route, highlighting the two countries’ strategic alliance.