BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The traveling public in Nigeria is currently excited as Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have perfected a deal to secure reciprocal rights for air services.
The deal springs from the efforts of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who led a high-level Nigerian delegation to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), where far-reaching decisions were made in strengthening the aviation ties between both nations.
The Special Assistant, Media and Communications to the Aviation Minister, Mr Tunde Moshood made the disclosure in a statement.
He said that the talks, held with UAE aviation authorities, centered on the much-anticipated resumption of Emirates Airlines’ flight operations to Nigeria and culminated in the successful negotiation of reciprocal air service rights for Nigerian airlines.
The breakthrough in negotiations heralds a new era for Nigeria’s aviation industry, as Nigerian airlines will now be granted the opportunity to operate direct flights to the UAE.
It marks a historic achievement, broadening Nigeria’s international connectivity and establishing an aviation relationship built on mutual benefits.
The discussions also led to the finalisation of a new Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and the UAE, which sets the foundation for enhanced cooperation and stronger economic and cultural exchanges between both countries.
Keyamo, accompanied by a team of aviation experts and technical staff, engaged in extensive talks aimed at ensuring the smooth return of Emirates Airlines to Nigeria, with flights scheduled to resume next Tuesday.
The new BASA agreement, a major focal point of the discussions, will not only enable better air traffic management but also provide a robust framework for deepening bilateral aviation partnerships.
During the talks, reciprocal operational rights were secured, a development that opens a new chapter for Nigerian airlines.
This agreement ensures that Nigerian carriers can now offer direct flight services to the UAE, unlocking unprecedented growth opportunities for Nigeria’s aviation industry.
By enhancing air connectivity, this breakthrough will provide Nigerian travelers with greater access to the UAE and further bolster Nigeria’s position as a regional aviation hub.
Commenting on the outcome of the discussions, Festus Keyamo expressed his satisfaction, stating:
“Today’s agreement is a testament to the Federal Government’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s aviation sector and ensuring balanced, mutually beneficial partnerships.
The reciprocal rights we have secured for Nigerian airlines reflect our drive to create a more competitive and dynamic aviation landscape.
As Emirates returns to Nigeria, we look forward to deeper cooperation that will not only benefit travelers but also create economic growth and opportunities for both nations.”
The resumption of Emirates Airlines’ operations and the new BASA represent a turning point in Nigeria’s aviation journey, enhancing not only the flow of passengers but also trade, tourism, and investment between Nigeria and the UAE.
The resumed flights will help facilitate business transactions, promote cultural exchange, and strengthen diplomatic relations, positioning both nations for sustained growth.
