Nigeria has formalized a significant aviation milestone by signing a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, laying the groundwork for the commencement of direct flights between the two nations. This landmark pact represents a major leap in Nigeria’s international air transport expansion strategy, connecting Africa more directly with the Caribbean.
The agreement was officially signed on Monday, April 15, 2025, at the Piarco International Airport in Trinidad and Tobago. Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and his Trinidadian counterpart, Rohan Sinanan, Minister of Works and Transport, led the ceremony, symbolizing a new era of strategic cooperation between the two countries.
A Diplomatic Vision Decades in the Making
According to a statement by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Minister Keyamo, the agreement is the culmination of several years of diplomatic and technical negotiations. These talks date back to the administration of former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, who served from May 1999 to May 2007. During his tenure, Nigeria began exploring stronger ties with Caribbean nations, viewing them as essential partners in expanding global partnerships and cultural diplomacy.
Moshood emphasized that the recent signing did not happen overnight. Instead, it was the result of sustained diplomatic engagement and shared interests between the two nations. He credited Minister Keyamo and his aviation leadership team for translating those long-standing dialogues into tangible results through proactive, result-oriented negotiations.
“Years of strategic dialogue and mutual interest have finally been brought to fruition through the proactive efforts of Minister Keyamo and his team,” Moshood noted.
Expanding Nigeria’s Global Aviation Footprint
During the official signing event, Minister Keyamo described the agreement as a pivotal step toward broadening Nigeria’s global aviation reach. He stressed that this partnership aligns with Nigeria’s broader vision of establishing stronger air transport corridors across continents, especially with regions like the Caribbean that share historical and cultural ties with Africa.
“This agreement not only fulfills a long-standing bilateral vision initiated during President Obasanjo’s time,” Keyamo said, “but also represents our commitment to expanding Nigeria’s global aviation footprint.”
He explained that the air services agreement allows designated carriers from both countries to operate scheduled passenger and cargo flights. The arrangement also permits airlines to enter into commercial cooperation arrangements and access each other’s territories under mutually agreed terms. By eliminating operational barriers and enabling flexible air connectivity, the deal promises to improve flight availability, travel options, and logistics efficiency between the two countries.
Unlocking Trade, Tourism, and Cultural Exchange
Keyamo further highlighted the vast opportunities this bilateral aviation agreement will open up. He noted that with direct air links, Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago can expect significant growth in cross-border trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. As two nations with deep historical ties, particularly through the African diaspora in the Caribbean, this direct connection will not only facilitate business and travel but also revive shared heritage.
“Direct flights will play a transformative role in fostering stronger business relationships, promoting tourism, and enhancing cultural ties,” Keyamo stated. “This is a win-win situation for both countries. It will bring people closer and help us create enduring bonds in trade, technology, education, and beyond.”
According to him, enhanced air connectivity also means faster movement of goods and services. Exporters and importers in both countries can now take advantage of shorter delivery timelines, lower logistics costs, and improved access to each other’s markets.
A Boost for Africa-Caribbean Relations
The agreement marks a milestone in the deepening of Africa-Caribbean relations. For years, leaders from both regions have expressed the need for stronger economic and cultural engagement. While historical ties have remained strong, practical mechanisms like air connectivity have lagged behind. With this aviation deal, Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago are setting an example of how developing nations can bridge geographical divides through focused bilateral cooperation.
This agreement also comes amid increasing efforts by the African Union (AU) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to foster more robust engagement between their member states. In recent years, both regional blocs have discussed trade cooperation, tourism development, and investment promotion. Improved air travel will be a key enabler of those goals.
A Step Toward Broader Continental Ambitions
The bilateral agreement with Trinidad and Tobago fits neatly into Nigeria’s broader aviation strategy, which includes developing new air routes and promoting Nigerian airlines globally. The Nigerian government has recently embarked on multiple bilateral negotiations with countries across Africa, Europe, and the Americas as part of a grand effort to improve air transport services, drive foreign investment, and support the growth of its aviation sector.
Nigeria has also been positioning itself as a major aviation hub in West Africa. By opening direct flight paths to destinations like the Caribbean, Nigeria is strategically enhancing its relevance in global aviation networks. Officials believe that this will not only attract more international airlines to Lagos and Abuja but will also make Nigerian carriers more competitive in overseas markets.
Strengthening People-to-People Ties and Economic Integration
Tunde Moshood emphasized that beyond economic gains, the agreement carries immense symbolic importance. It underscores a shared aspiration to bring communities together and foster mutual prosperity. According to him, increased people-to-people contact through travel will help both countries deepen mutual understanding and respect.
“This is more than a technical agreement—it’s a bridge between people. It brings our citizens closer and enhances the opportunities they can access across borders,” he said.
The agreement, once operational, is expected to encourage joint ventures in tourism, hospitality, logistics, and aviation services. Nigerian travel agencies, tour operators, and airline operators stand to benefit from the expected surge in travel demand.
Looking Ahead: Implementation and Operational Readiness
With the signing now complete, the next phase will involve the implementation of the agreement. This includes designating eligible carriers from both countries, finalizing flight schedules, and ensuring regulatory compliance with international civil aviation standards. Industry observers expect Nigeria’s national carriers or other certified operators to take the lead in launching the initial routes.
Stakeholders also anticipate collaborations between airport authorities, customs, immigration, and tourism boards to ensure seamless travel experiences for passengers.
Minister Keyamo concluded by expressing optimism about the future of Nigeria-Trinidad and Tobago aviation ties. “This is a partnership rooted in shared vision, mutual respect, and a desire to achieve greater connectivity. We look forward to seeing planes fly this route very soon,” he said.
