Nigeria and Jamaica are discussing a direct flight route to enhance air connectivity and diplomatic relations through the Bilateral Air Service Agreement
Nigeria and Jamaica are in talks to establish a direct flight route between the two nations as part of efforts to enhance air connectivity and diplomatic relations.
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This move comes as both countries work to strengthen their existing Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA), aiming to improve travel links and foster greater cooperation.
The discussions were initiated during a meeting between Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, and Jamaican Ambassador to Nigeria, Lincoln Downer, alongside Consular Andre Hibbert, in Abuja on Wednesday.
A statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Tunde Moshood, confirmed the engagement and the potential benefits of a direct air link between the two countries.
Ambassador Downer highlighted the growing interest in Nigerian culture, particularly Afrobeat music and Nollywood films, which are rapidly gaining popularity in Jamaica.
This cultural exchange, he argued, further underscores the need for improved diplomatic and air connectivity. He pointed out that Jamaicans have a deep appreciation for Nigeria, adding,
“There is no reason why we should not have a direct flight between our countries. Nigerians love Jamaica, and there is a rising demand for Jamaican spices in Nigeria.”
In his response, Minister Keyamo welcomed the ambassador’s proposals and expressed optimism about the next steps. He acknowledged the importance of the BASA and assured that a committee would be formed to expedite the process of establishing the direct flight route.
Keyamo also committed to visiting Jamaica to finalise and sign the BASA agreement in person if necessary, further demonstrating Nigeria’s dedication to advancing the proposal.
Currently, Jamaica lacks a national carrier and relies on neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago for air transport. Ambassador Downer proposed that Jamaica consider combining the BASA with Trinidad and Tobago to address the current air services gap, especially given the increasing demand for travel between Nigeria and Jamaica.
Beyond air services, Downer expressed his deep appreciation for Nigeria, revealing a personal connection to the country.
During his four-month tenure as the Jamaican envoy to Nigeria, he discovered that Nigeria might be his ancestral home, adding a personal touch to the growing diplomatic ties between the two nations.
The ongoing discussions between Nigeria and Jamaica represent a significant step towards enhancing bilateral relations, not only in the aviation sector but also in cultural exchanges.
With both countries eager to foster closer ties, the establishment of a direct flight route could serve as a catalyst for stronger economic, cultural, and diplomatic collaboration.
