In a landmark move to enhance air connectivity between Nigeria and Canada, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with Canadian authorities.
The agreement was finalised today at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Keyamo clarified that the agreement is a code-share arrangement, rather than a full bilateral agreement.
Under this arrangement, multiple airlines can market and sell seats on flights operated by another airline, allowing passengers to book flights under different airline codes.
He also stated that Nigeria will designate airline operators to implement and benefit from the agreement.
READ ALSO: Nigeria pushes for leading fish exporter status — Oyetola
Expressing gratitude to the Canadian authorities, Keyamo noted that his counterpart in Canada had already signed the agreement.
To minimize costs, he signed the document in Nigeria.
He emphasised that the agreement will further strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, commended Keyamo for his proactive approach and dedication to advancing Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Welcoming the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Pasquale Salvaggio, Kana highlighted Nigeria’s position as Canada’s largest economic partner in Africa.
He expressed confidence that the BASA agreement would benefit both nations by enhancing air travel and economic cooperation.
In his remarks, Salvaggio thanked the Nigerian government for facilitating the agreement and expressed Canada’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
He reiterated the Canadian government’s readiness to collaborate with Nigeria in advancing aviation partnerships.
READ ALSO: Give Nigerians account of your service, Tinubu orders ministers
Code-sharing agreements, such as the one signed today, allow airlines to expand their networks, improve connectivity, and streamline passenger travel without adding new flights.
This agreement is expected to enhance travel options between Nigeria and Canada, promoting economic and cultural exchange.
