After Two Decades, Nigeria Seals Bilateral Air Services Deal with Trinidad and Tobago

Naija247News reports that Nigeria has officially signed a long-awaited Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, ending a 20-year delay in finalizing the aviation pact between both nations.

Naija247news gathered that the landmark agreement was signed on the sidelines of the International Civil Aviation Negotiation (ICAN) event, organized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The deal is expected to facilitate direct flight connections and foster stronger economic, cultural, and tourism ties between the two countries.

According to Naija247news, the signing was conducted by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who described the agreement as a step toward expanding Nigeria’s air transport reach in the Caribbean and Latin American regions. He expressed optimism that the pact would enhance bilateral cooperation and boost aviation business opportunities for both nations.

Naija247news understands that negotiations for the air services agreement first began in the early 2000s but were stalled due to administrative and diplomatic delays on both sides. The renewed engagement, driven by Nigeria’s renewed foreign policy thrust and aviation sector reforms, has now brought the process to fruition.

Naija247news reports that the BASA provides a legal framework for airlines from both countries to operate commercial flights between Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago. It also outlines safety standards, flight frequencies, and air traffic rights that will govern operations under the agreement.

Industry stakeholders have welcomed the development, describing it as timely and strategic. They believe the agreement will not only ease travel between West Africa and the Caribbean but also open new routes for trade, tourism, and diaspora engagement.

Naija247news gathered that discussions are already ongoing between designated airlines from both countries on the modalities of commencing scheduled services. Analysts say this could lead to an increase in foreign exchange earnings and promote people-to-people connections.

According to Naija247news, Nigeria continues to pursue similar agreements with other countries in a bid to improve international air connectivity and position its airlines for greater global competitiveness.