Akinwande Soji-Ojo
Nigeria and United Arab Emirates (UAE) have agreed on reciprocal rights ahead of the resumption of Emirates Airlines’ flight operations to Nigeria.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, led a delegation to the UAE to finalise the negotiations.
The meeting, which took place on Friday, set the foundation for a new bilateral air service agreement (BASA) between both countries, to ensure stronger and mutually beneficial aviation ties.
The minister, accompanied by his technical team, engaged in discussions with UAE aviation authorities, to ensure smooth reintroduction of Emirates Airlines into the Nigerian airspace on October 3.
A statement by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Keyamo, said the new BASA, which was the focal point of the discussion, is designed to enhance collaboration between the two countries and establish guidelines for their evolving relationship in the aviation sector.
“Crucially, the negotiations also yielded a significant agreement on reciprocal rights, ensuring that Nigerian airlines will soon have the opportunity to commence direct flight operations to the UAE.
“This marks a historic development for Nigeria’s aviation industry, expanding international connectivity and offering more options to travellers between the two nations,” he said.
Speaking on the outcome of the meeting, Keyamo said the discussions reaffirm the commitment of the aviation sector to fostering a balanced and forward-looking partnership with the UAE.
“We are pleased to have secured reciprocal operational rights for Nigerian airlines, which will not only deepen our bilateral ties but also strengthen the global competitiveness of Nigeria’s aviation industr.
“As Emirates returns to Nigeria, we look forward to a thriving and mutually beneficial air service relationship,” the minister said.
Moshood said the development follows weeks of diplomatic and technical consultations aimed at restoring direct air travel between Nigeria and UAE.
He said this further signals the government’s dedication to ensuring the best possible outcomes for both Nigerian and international travellers.
The statement added that the resumed flight operations by Emirates and the new BASA will play a pivotal role in promoting tourism, business, and cultural exchanges between Nigeria and the UAE, as well as fostering economic growth.
Emirates Airlines had in November 2022 suspended flight operations to Nigeria over its inability to repatriate $85 million revenue trapped in the country.
Keyamo, however, on April 8, 2024, announced that he received a letter from the airline confirming that all the issues have been resolved and is prepared to resume flight operations in the country.
