Nigeria has signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with Canada, marking a significant milestone in aviation cooperation between both nations.
The agreement, signed in Abuja by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, allows for code-sharing arrangements between airlines from both countries.
Keyamo clarified that the agreement is not a full bilateral treaty but a code-share arrangement, enabling airlines to market and sell seats on flights operated by partner carriers. This will improve connectivity, allowing passengers to book flights seamlessly across multiple airlines. He added that Nigeria will designate airline operators to maximise the benefits of the agreement.
The minister expressed gratitude to Canadian authorities for their commitment, explaining that while his Canadian counterpart had signed the agreement earlier, signing in Nigeria was a cost-effective decision. He emphasised that the deal would strengthen economic ties and enhance aviation services between both countries.
The permanent secretary of the ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Kana commended Keyamo’s proactive efforts in advancing Nigeria’s aviation sector. Welcoming the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Pasquale Salvaggio, Kana highlighted Nigeria’s strong economic partnership with Canada, stating that the agreement would be mutually beneficial.
In response, Salvaggio expressed appreciation to the Nigerian government, affirming Canada’s commitment to fostering closer bilateral relations.
Code-sharing expands airline networks without additional flights, simplifies connections, and enhances global access. With this agreement, Nigerian and Canadian airlines can now collaborate more effectively, boosting air travel and economic cooperation between both nations.
