BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
To strengthen ties and explore future aviation collaborations, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, engaged in high-level talks on Thursday with José Bamoquina Zau, the Angolan Ambassador to Nigeria and his deputy, Nelson Paulo Kafikiri.
The meeting aimed to deepen the relationship between Nigeria and Angola, particularly in the aviation sector, as both nations seek to enhance connectivity and mutual growth.
According to Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser to the Minister on Media and Communications, the Angolan delegation shared encouraging developments within their aviation sector, placing a strong emphasis on recent investments in airport infrastructure.
Ambassador Zau proudly highlighted the forthcoming inauguration of Angola’s new airport, a state-of-the-art facility designed to serve as a regional hub.
He revealed that the official opening is scheduled for the next month and expressed excitement over the potential impact the airport would have on regional and international air traffic.
Representing Angolan Transport Minister Ricardo de Abreu, Ambassador Zau extended warm regards and reiterated Angola’s commitment to fostering closer aviation ties with Nigeria.
He conveyed Angola’s eagerness to establish a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with Nigeria, recognizing the mutual benefits that enhanced air connectivity could bring to both nations.
Zau also formally invited Minister Keyamo to the grand opening of Angola’s new airport, underlining the spirit of cooperation that both countries hope to cultivate.
Keyamo, in his response, praised Angola’s remarkable achievements in modernizing its aviation infrastructure. He expressed his appreciation for the invitation and confirmed his intention to attend the airport inauguration.
Keyamo also reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate with Angola in unlocking new business opportunities and enhancing air routes that would benefit not only the two nations but the broader African aviation landscape.
To ensure seamless preparation for the upcoming event and to maximize opportunities for collaboration, Minister Keyamo announced the establishment of a technical committee.
This committee will work closely with the Angolan Embassy’s team to coordinate logistics, manage the details of the Minister’s visit, and identify key areas for long-term cooperation within the aviation sector.
The technical team will also explore how Nigeria and Angola can further align their strategies to bolster economic growth through improved air transport services.
The strategic meeting underscores the shared vision between Nigeria and Angola to enhance aviation ties, paving the way for robust economic partnerships.
As both countries continue to invest in their aviation industries, the collaboration is expected to open up new frontiers in air connectivity, trade, and tourism, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of the African continent.
The discussions mark a significant milestone in Nigeria-Angola relations, showcasing a mutual commitment to fostering a stronger aviation alliance that promises to deliver widespread benefits for both nations.
