The Federal Republic of Nigeria on Monday signed a Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) with the Federative Republic of Brazil, paving the way for direct flights between both countries.
This is contained in a statement by Mr Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, in Abuja on Monday.
The agreement was signed in Brazil by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, and Brazil’s Minister of Transport, Mr Silvio Costa Filho.
The event was witnessed by President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria and President Luiz Inácio Lula 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.
President 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 Lula da Silva, marking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral ties between the largest economies in Africa and South America.
In his remarks, President Lula 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, President 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.
President Tinubu was accompanied by senior cabinet members, including Mr Olawale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, and Amb, Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.
Others in the delegation include Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development; Mr Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security; as well as other top government officials.
(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)