FG negotiates direct flights to UAE

Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has successfully secured a deal allowing Nigerian airlines to start direct flights to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

This agreement was reached in anticipation of the resumption of Emirates Airlines’ flights to Nigeria next week.

Keyamo, along with a delegation, traveled to the UAE to finalize negotiations for the resumption of Emirates Airlines. Tunde Moshood, Keyamo’s Special Assistant on Media and Communications, stated that this meeting laid the groundwork for a new Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and the UAE.

This agreement is expected to improve cooperation between the two nations and establish clear guidelines for their aviation industries.

The statement reads: “The Honourable Minister, accompanied by his technical team, engaged in constructive discussions with UAE aviation authorities, to ensure 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.

“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, Festus Keyamo stated: “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.

“This 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.”