Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have solidified their aviation partnership with the signing of an amended Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA).
As contained in a statement, the agreement was finalized during a high-level meeting between Nigerian Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo and UAE Minister of Economy Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri at the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS) 2025 in Abu Dhabi.
The amended BASA builds upon previous negotiations and grants reciprocal rights to both nations, paving the way for increased collaboration in the aviation sector.
Mr. Keyamo emphasized the importance of enhanced connectivity between the two countries, focusing on expanding codeshare agreements and interlining opportunities for Nigerian airlines.
Beyond the BASA, Nigeria aviation minister advocated a review of UAE visa restrictions on Nigerians, arguing that easing these restrictions would boost passenger traffic and benefit both economies.
The two nations also agreed to a Technical Cooperation Agreement, focusing on capacity building and technical support in key aviation areas, including safety and regulatory oversight, environmental concerns, airport facilitation, and security.
The UAE Minister of Economy Al Marri, said, “Let me say this on camera now, the Nigeria Aviation Minister is a man who keeps his words and for us, that’s everything,” acknowledging Keyamo’s commitment to strengthening aviation relations between the two countries.
The ICAO GISS 2025, hosted by Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), brought together over 35 ministers, representatives from 191 countries, 1,500 aviation professionals, and 70 exhibitors.
The event also showcased the Global Sustainable Aviation Marketplace (GSAM), an initiative by the UAE to promote sustainable aviation practices.