Nigeria, at the ongoing International Civil Aviation Negotiation (ICAN) Event of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has solidified a significant partnership by signing a Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) with Kuwait. This key agreement sets the stage for the commencement of direct flights, accommodating passengers and cargo, between the two nations.
Representing Nigeria, Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Space Development, emphasized the potential of this accord to bolster the economic cooperation between Nigeria and Kuwait. He underscored that the BASA aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Emphasizing the opportunities presented by the BASA, Mr. Keyamo urged stakeholders in the aviation sector of both countries to maximize the benefits afforded by this landmark agreement.
In a similar vein, the Acting Director General of Civil Aviation of the State of Kuwait, Engineer Emad Al-Jelwi, highlighted the landmark nature of the direct flight agreement. He stressed that this agreement signifies the beginning of a robust relationship in various spheres including trade, commerce, tourism, and education, with significant socio-economic benefits for both nations. Furthermore, he expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential to serve as a gateway for Kuwait into the African continent.
Additionally, Mr. Keyamo engaged in bilateral discussions regarding the launch of flight operations for passengers and cargo between Nigeria and Iran. During these discussions, he emphasized the enduring relationship between Nigeria and Iran and the need to leverage the shared international affiliations and perspectives held by both countries.
In a reciprocal sentiment, Mr. Bakhsh, the President of Iran Civil Aviation Authority, referenced the previous exchange of BASA between the two nations and advocated for the operationalization of the agreement. He also disclosed Iran’s designation of Mahan Air for the operation of the Tehran-Lagos route and encouraged Nigeria to designate its own carrier for the reciprocal route. Mr. Bakhsh emphasized the mutual benefits that direct air service can bring, citing Iran’s strides in civil aviation despite facing international sanctions.
This monumental agreement holds the promise of fostering greater economic ties between Nigeria and Kuwait, and potentially Nigeria and Iran, reflecting the ongoing efforts to strengthen global connectivity and cooperation in the aviation sector.
By Olusola Akintonde
