Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has signed an amended Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) with the United Arab Emirates, reinforcing aviation ties between both nations. The agreement was formalized during the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s Global Implementation Support Symposium 2025 in Abu Dhabi, following a high-level meeting with UAE’s Minister of Economy, Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri.
The signing builds on last year’s negotiations to ensure reciprocal rights for both countries while promoting deeper aviation cooperation. Keyamo emphasized the importance of enhancing connectivity, expanding codeshare agreements, and creating interlining opportunities for Nigerian airlines. He also advocated a review of UAE’s visa restrictions on Nigerians, stressing that easing these conditions would boost passenger traffic and benefit both economies.
Al Marri commended Keyamo’s dedication, stating, “The Nigerian Aviation Minister is a man who keeps his word, and for us, that’s everything.” The event, hosted by Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, brought together over 35 ministers, representatives from 191 countries, 1,500 aviation professionals, and 70 exhibitors.
In addition to BASA, Nigeria and the UAE agreed to sign a Technical Cooperation Agreement focusing on capacity building, safety regulations, environmental standards, airport facilitation, and security. This partnership aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to global aviation best practices and strengthening international relations.
Keyamo reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to work closely with the UAE to effectively implement these agreements, ensuring both nations maximize the economic and operational benefits of this strengthened partnership.
