In a bold push to deepen Nigeria’s global aviation footprint and establish a direct air route to South America, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has embarked on a strategic working visit to Brazil. Accompanied by the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, and representatives of Nigerian airline operators, the delegation aims to strengthen partnerships that will accelerate growth in the nation’s aviation sector.
At the core of the visit is a high-level engagement with Embraer, the world-renowned regional aircraft manufacturer and lessor, headquartered in São José dos Campos, São Paulo State. The Nigerian delegation met with Embraer’s top executives to explore access to modern aircraft, favorable leasing terms, and connections to a robust network of global financiers.
“We had extensive discussions with Embraer on how they can support our aviation sector through their vast network of lessors and financial institutions,” Keyamo said. “The goal is to empower Nigerian operators with the tools and partnerships necessary for growth and expansion.”
The visit marks a significant step in actualizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes infrastructure development, increased regional connectivity, and international cooperation. Strengthening Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem through strategic alliances like this aligns with broader efforts to make the country a central hub for air transport in Africa and beyond.
Beyond the Embraer engagement, the Nigerian team is scheduled to meet with Brazil’s Minister of Ports and Airports, Sílvio Costa Filho, in Brasilia. Central to that discussion is the review and update of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Brazil—an essential step to enabling direct flight operations between both nations.
According to Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister, the initiative reflects a shared commitment to expanding international trade, enhancing diplomatic ties, and bridging the gap between Africa and South America through improved air connectivity.
The visit also builds on prior diplomatic efforts, including discussions initiated in October 2024 to facilitate direct air travel between Nigeria and Brazil. If successful, this initiative will not only improve passenger and cargo flow between both regions but also unlock new economic and tourism opportunities for Nigerian carriers and businesses.
As Nigeria continues to retool its aviation strategy for global relevance, this Brazilian mission signals a turning point in advancing international partnerships and positioning the country as a key player in cross-continental air connectivity.
