Angola and Nigeria have reaffirmed their commitment to enhance air connectivity and explore mutually beneficial opportunities within the aviation sector. This came during a visit by the Angolan Ambassador to Nigeria, José Bamoquina Zau, and his deputy, Nelson Paulo Kafikiri, to Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, in Abuja.
Ambassador Zau, delivering a message from Angola’s Minister of Transport, Ricardo de Abreu, provided updates on Angola’s recent advancements in aviation. He highlighted the completion of a significant overhaul of the country’s airport infrastructure, noting that Angola’s new airport, which will serve as a strategic hub for the region, is set to be inaugurated next month.
The Angolan delegation expressed keen interest in exploring a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) and other aviation business collaborations with Nigeria, emphasizing the potential for both nations to benefit from closer ties. Ambassador Zau stressed Angola’s eagerness to tap into Nigeria’s wealth of experience in aviation, particularly in business and infrastructure development.
In response, Mr. Keyamo congratulated Angola on its achievements in the aviation sector and expressed Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate further. He accepted the invitation to attend the grand opening of Angola’s new airport, signaling a strong commitment to enhancing air connectivity and exploring new business ventures between the two nations.
To ensure seamless coordination for the upcoming inauguration and future collaborations, Mr. Keyamo has established a technical committee to work with the Angolan Embassy’s team. This committee will oversee logistics and help solidify plans for the Minister’s visit, as well as identify potential areas for cooperation.
The meeting underscored the shared vision of both countries to expand their aviation sectors, improve infrastructure, and foster deeper economic cooperation. Both ministers are optimistic that this strengthened partnership will yield significant benefits for the aviation industries of Angola and Nigeria.
