Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has signed an amended Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The agreement, signed during the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s Global Implementation Support Symposium (ICAO GISS) 2025 in Abu Dhabi, aims to solidify mutual aviation ties and foster deeper collaboration between the two nations. The signing ceremony was attended by key aviation stakeholders from both countries, marking a milestone in Nigeria-UAE aviation relations.
Key Highlights of the Amended BASA
The amended BASA builds on negotiations initiated last year to ensure reciprocal rights for both countries and expand opportunities for Nigerian airlines. According to a statement signed by Keyamo’s media aide, Tunde Moshood, the agreement focuses on enhancing connectivity between Nigeria and the UAE, with an emphasis on expanding codeshare agreements and interlining opportunities for Nigerian carriers. These measures are expected to boost passenger traffic and strengthen economic ties between the two nations.
During the signing ceremony, Keyamo emphasized the importance of the agreement in promoting mutual benefits. “This amendment underscores our commitment to fostering a robust aviation partnership with the UAE. It will not only enhance connectivity but also create opportunities for Nigerian airlines to expand their operations and compete globally,” he said.
UAE’s Minister of Economy Praises Keyamo’s Commitment
The UAE’s Minister of Economy, Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, commended Keyamo for his dedication to advancing Nigeria-UAE aviation relations. “Let me say this on camera now, the Nigeria Aviation Minister is a man who keeps his words, and for us, that’s everything,” Al Marri stated. This acknowledgment highlights the trust and mutual respect between the two nations as they work towards strengthening their aviation partnership.
Advocacy for Visa Restrictions Review
Beyond the BASA agreement, Keyamo advocated for a review of the UAE’s visa restrictions on Nigerians. He stressed that easing the current visa conditions would increase passenger traffic on designated routes, benefiting both nations’ economies. “Easing visa restrictions will not only enhance people-to-people connections but also stimulate economic activities and tourism between Nigeria and the UAE,” Keyamo noted.
Technical Cooperation Agreement on the Horizon
In addition to the BASA, Nigeria and the UAE agreed to sign a Technical Cooperation Agreement aimed at capacity building and technical support in key aviation areas. The agreement will focus on safety and regulatory standards, environmental sustainability, airport facilitation, and security. This cooperation reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to elevating its aviation sector to global best practices while deepening ties with international partners.
“This Technical Cooperation Agreement will provide Nigerian aviation professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to meet international standards and enhance the overall efficiency of our aviation sector,” Keyamo explained.
Nigeria’s Commitment to Global Best Practices
The signing of the amended BASA and the proposed Technical Cooperation Agreement reflect Nigeria’s determination to align its aviation sector with global standards. Keyamo reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to work closely with the UAE to implement these agreements effectively, ensuring that both nations maximize the economic and operational benefits of their strengthened partnership.
“Nigeria is committed to fostering a vibrant and sustainable aviation industry. Our collaboration with the UAE is a testament to our shared vision of promoting safe, efficient, and globally competitive air transport services,” Keyamo stated.
High-Level Delegation at the Signing Ceremony
The signing ceremony was attended by a high-level delegation from Nigeria, including:
- Capt. Chris Ona Najomo, Acting Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)
- Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN)
- Mrs. Olayinka Babaoye-Iriobe, Director of Air Transport Regulations at the NCAA
- Capt. Abdullahi Mahmood, Director of Operations at the NCAA
- Ahmed Tijani, Director of Air Transport Management at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development
Their presence underscored the importance of the agreement and Nigeria’s commitment to advancing its aviation sector.
Conclusion: A New Era of Nigeria-UAE Aviation Relations
The signing of the amended Bilateral Air Service Agreement between Nigeria and the UAE marks a new era of aviation cooperation between the two nations. By enhancing connectivity, expanding codeshare agreements, and advocating for the review of visa restrictions, the agreement is poised to unlock significant economic and operational benefits for both countries.
The proposed Technical Cooperation Agreement further solidifies this partnership, providing a framework for capacity building and technical support in critical areas of aviation. As Nigeria continues to align its aviation sector with global best practices, its collaboration with the UAE serves as a model for international partnerships that drive growth, innovation, and sustainability in the aviation industry.
With the commitment of both nations to implement these agreements effectively, the future of Nigeria-UAE aviation relations looks promising, offering new opportunities for airlines, passengers, and businesses alike.
