By Tochukwu Bliss, Abuja
The Federal Government has signed the amended Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The agreement was executed during the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS) 2025.
In a statement signed by his spokesperson, Tunde Moshood, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, was said to have emphasised the importance of enhancing connectivity between Nigeria and the UAE.
He added that specific focus is on expanding codeshare agreements and interlining opportunities for Nigerian airlines.
He was quoted as saying: “This is in a high-level meeting with Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE’s Minister of Economy, solidifying mutual aviation ties between both nations.
“The signing of the amended BASA builds on last year’s negotiations, ensuring reciprocal rights for both countries and fostering deeper aviation collaboration.”
Mr. Keyamo was said to have also sought a review of UAE’s visa restrictions on Nigerians beyond the BASA agreement.
He noted that easing the current conditions would increase passenger traffic on designated routes, benefiting both nations’ economies.
He further expressed Nigeria’s readiness to work closely with the UAE to implement the agreements by ensuring that both nations maximise the economic and operational benefits of the strengthened partnership.
The signing of the amended BASA builds on last year’s negotiations, ensuring reciprocal rights for both countries and fostering deeper aviation collaboration.
