The Nigerian government has taken a major step toward expanding international connectivity by signing a Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) with the Federative Republic of Brazil, a deal that will pave the way for direct flights between the two countries.
According to a statement released on Monday by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the agreement was signed in Brazil by Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, alongside Silvio Costa Filho, Brazil’s Minister of Transport.
The BASA is expected to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange, while strengthening diplomatic ties between Africa’s most populous nation and South America’s largest economy.
The event was witnessed by President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria and President Luiz da Silva of Brazil.
According to the statement, the BASA establishes a framework for direct air connectivity between Nigeria and Brazil, unlocking new opportunities for trade, tourism, investment, and people-to-people exchange.
The agreement is also expected to promote stronger economic integration, enhance cultural relations, and deepen diplomatic cooperation between the two countries.
“This agreement is a strategic milestone that underscores President Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s global partnerships and creating an enabling environment for commerce and mobility,” the statement said.
Mr Tinubu began a two-day state visit to Brazil on Monday, during which the BASA was signed.
He was warmly received in Brasília by President da Silva, marking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral ties between the largest economies in Africa and South America.
In his remarks, the Brazil president lauded the agreement and expressed Brazil’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Nigeria in aviation, agriculture, infrastructure development, and other key areas.
During the visit, Mr Tinubu is also scheduled to meet with the President of the Brazilian Senate, the President of the Chamber of Deputies, and the President of the Supreme Federal Court.
The working visit will feature high-level engagements between Nigerian and Brazilian delegations across various sectors, highlighting both nations’ commitment to mutual growth and prosperity.
Mr Tinubu was accompanied by senior cabinet members, including the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu.
Others in the delegation include Festus Keyamo, minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development; Abubakar Kyari, minister of Agriculture and Food Security; as well as other top government officials.
(NAN)