Four days to resumption of the much-anticipated Emirates Airlines’ flight operations to the country, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has led a high-powered Nigerian delegation to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to finalize negotiations.
The meeting, which took place earlier today, Friday, also set the foundation for a new Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between both countries to ensure stronger and mutually beneficial aviation ties.
A statement issued by the special assistant on media and communications to the minister, Tunde Moshood, Keyamo, accompanied by his technical team, engaged in constructive discussions with UAE aviation authorities, with the aim of ensuring smooth reintroduction of Emirates Airlines into the Nigerian airspace next week Tuesday.
The new BASA, which was a focal point of the talks, is designed to enhance collaboration between the two countries and establish guidelines for their evolving relationship in the aviation sector.
According to the statement, “crucially, the negotiations also yielded a significant agreement on reciprocal rights, ensuring that Nigerian airlines will soon have the opportunity to commence direct flight operations to the UAE. This marks a historic development for Nigeria’s aviation industry, expanding international connectivity and offering more options to travelers between the two nations.”
Speaking on the outcome of the meeting, Keyamo remarked: “Today’s discussions reaffirm our commitment to fostering a balanced and forward-looking partnership with the UAE. We are pleased to have secured reciprocal operational rights for Nigerian airlines, which will not only deepen our bilateral ties but also strengthen the global competitiveness of Nigeria’s aviation industry. As Emirates returns to Nigeria, we look forward to a thriving and mutually beneficial air service relationship.”
The development follows weeks of diplomatic and technical consultations aimed at restoring direct air travel between Nigeria and the UAE, further signaling the Federal Government’s dedication to ensuring the best possible outcomes for both Nigerian and international travelers.
The resumed flight operations by Emirates and the new BASA will play a pivotal role in promoting tourism, business, and cultural exchanges between Nigeria and the UAE, as well as fostering economic growth.
Emirates had earlier announced readiness to resume operations between the UAE and Nigeria on October 1st, 2024 to commemorate the independence anniversary of Nigeria.
