The Nigerian government and Canada are in discussions to establish a direct flight route between the two countries, prompted by the increasing number of Nigerians residing in Canada and the potential for enhanced business collaborations in the aviation sector. This initiative was highlighted during a meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Jamie Christoff, on July 22 in Abuja.
Minister Keyamo emphasized the necessity of direct flights to support the substantial Nigerian population in Canada, noting that most current flights are transit routes. He advocated for infrastructural development in Nigeria’s aviation sector, positioning Nigeria as a major hub in Africa due to its equidistant location to many countries globally. Additionally, Keyamo mentioned the possibility of developing cargo routes, particularly given the growing presence of Nigerian eateries in Canada.
Keyamo expressed Nigeria’s long-standing relationship with Canada and suggested appointing a focal person from the ministry to solidify arrangements for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This MoU would address the establishment of a direct flight route, cargo flights, and business investment opportunities. He reiterated the strategic importance of this route, particularly in light of the busy summer travel season and the high volume of student and tourist traffic between the two nations.
High Commissioner Christoff confirmed the viability of the direct flight route, citing Nigeria’s substantial student population of about 18,000 in Canada and the growing Nigerian community in various sectors. He assured that Canada would explore the necessary modalities to establish the route. Christoff also highlighted Canada’s robust aviation sector, valued at approximately $20 billion, and expressed willingness to introduce private sector investors to Nigeria.
In a statement by Odutayo Oluseyi, Head of Information, Press, and Public Affairs of the Nigerian Ministry of Aviation, the minister’s call for a direct flight underscores the mutual benefits for both nations. This initiative aligns with discussions on the shortage of aircraft for local operators and the establishment of a direct bilateral aviation safety agreement (BASA) route to Canada.
The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to nominate focal persons to further engage on these issues, laying the groundwork for future collaborations. The potential direct flight route represents a significant step in strengthening the economic and cultural ties between Nigeria and Canada, promising mutual benefits in the aviation sector and beyond.
