Nigeria, Brazil Seal Direct Air Link Deal in Landmark Aviation Talks

Nigeria and Brazil have taken a major step toward strengthening bilateral relations with the sealing of a direct air link agreement following a high-level meeting between their aviation authorities.

According to a press release issued by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK), the meeting with Brazil’s Minister of Ports and Airports, Mr. Silvio Costa Filho, was held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Brasília and marked a significant breakthrough in finalizing a long-delayed Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA).

The two Ministers jointly announced the immediate formation of a technical working group tasked with drafting and harmonizing the BASA for signature within the coming weeks — a critical step toward the launch of direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil.

“This is going to be a symbiotic relationship — beneficial to you and beneficial to us,” Keyamo was quoted as saying. “Nigeria is the largest country in Africa and Brazil is one of the biggest in South America. No matter how we want to look at it, this air-link must commence without delay.”

The release also highlighted the cultural and historical ties between the two nations. Keyamo noted the presence of the Yoruba ethnic group in Brazil, saying, “We are like twins separated at birth and now reunited.” The remark reportedly sparked laughter and warmth during the meeting, culminating in a symbolic knuckle exchange between the two Ministers — an informal gesture that sealed the spirit of the agreement.

Beyond air connectivity, both parties expressed strong interest in exploring further collaboration in aviation and aerospace development, including technical training, infrastructure development, knowledge exchange, and investment opportunities.

The anticipated direct air link is expected to foster increased tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between Africa’s most populous country and South America’s largest economy.