LAGOS – As Emirates airlines, the flag carrier of United Arab Emirates (UAE) recommences direct flights between its base and Nigeria, Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development has held a strategic meeting with the aviation authorities of the Asia country.
The two countries have also re-emphasised the existing Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) arrangement between them, which gives unfettered access to each other’s main airports.
The BASA set the foundation for a stronger and mutually beneficial aviation ties between the two countries.
A statement by Mr. Tunde Moshood, Special Assistant, Media and Communications to Keyamo said that the meeting took place on Friday in UAE.
According to the statement, Keyamo led a high-level Nigerian technical delegation to the UAE to finalise negotiations ahead of the anticipated resumption of Emirates Airlines’ flight operations to Nigeria on October 1, 2024.
The statement hinted that Keyamo engaged in constructive discussions with UAE aviation authorities, with the aim of ensuring smooth return of Emirates Airlines into the Nigerian airspace.
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He explained that the negotiations also yielded a significant agreement on reciprocal rights, ensuring that Nigerian airlines would soon have the opportunity to commence direct flight operations to the UAE.
Before the suspension of operations, Air Peace was the only Nigerian airline operating direct flight services to Sharjah, one of the seven emirates in the UAE.
The statement quoted Keyamo as saying that the discussions reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fostering a balanced and forward-looking partnership with the UAE.
He added: “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 would play a pivotal role in promoting tourism, business, and cultural exchanges between Nigeria and the UAE, as well as fostering economic growth.
