Nigeria and Brazil have signed an agreement to start direct flights between the two countries as part of efforts to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties.
The bilateral air service agreement (BASA) was signed during President Bola Tinubu’s two-day visit to Brazil, according to a statement released on Monday by the Ministry of Aviation.
Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Aviation Minister, said the signing ceremony took place while Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was hosting President Tinubu.
The Nigerian president travelled with senior government officials, including Wale Edun, Minister of Finance; Bianca Onoh Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation; and Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture.
“The agreement was signed by Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Olorogun Festus Keyamo SAN, alongside Brazil’s Minister of Transport, Silvio Costa Filho, in the presence of both Heads of State,” the statement said.
What the deal means
“The BASA establishes a new framework for direct air connectivity between Nigeria and Brazil, opening fresh avenues for trade, tourism, investment, and people-to-people exchanges,” Moshood explained.
“It is expected to foster stronger economic integration, facilitate cultural ties, and enhance diplomatic cooperation between both nations.”
The agreement removes the need for Nigerians and Brazilians to travel through other countries when flying between Lagos or Abuja and Brazilian cities like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro.
President Lula da Silva welcomed the partnership and confirmed Brazil’s interest in deepening ties with Nigeria across various areas, including aviation, agriculture, and infrastructure development.
During the state visit, President Tinubu is also scheduled to meet with the heads of Brazil’s Senate, Chamber of Deputies, and Supreme Federal Court.
“The working visit, which continues tomorrow, will also feature high-level engagements between Nigerian and Brazilian delegations across various sectors, underscoring both nations’ commitment to building a future of mutual growth and prosperity,” Moshood said.
Nigeria first commenced discussions with Brazil about direct flights in October 2024.
