In a landmark step towards deepening air connectivity between West Africa and the Caribbean, Nigeria and Trinidad & Tobago have signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA).
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN and Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Works and Transport, Rohan Sinanan today signed the agreement between both nations.
The historic signing ceremony was held at the VIP Lounge of Piarco International Airport in Trinidad and Tobago, formally opening the door for direct air links between the countries.
This milestone marks the culmination of diplomatic and technical engagements that began during the administration of former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. Years of dialogue and shared aspirations have now materialised through the dedicated efforts of Keyamo and his team.
Speaking at the event, Keyamo described the signing as the realisation of a long-held bilateral vision, first pursued during the Obasanjo administration. He emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to expanding its global aviation footprint, stating that the agreement would foster stronger trade, tourism, cultural exchange and connectivity between Nigeria and the Caribbean region.
The minister was accompanied by senior officials from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, who witnessed the signing of this strategic accord.
The agreement allows designated airlines from both countries to operate passenger and cargo flights, establish commercial partnerships, and access each other’s territories under mutually agreed terms. It is expected to significantly strengthen economic cooperation and promote closer people-to-people relationships.
Sinanan expressed optimism about the agreement’s potential to boost collaboration and create new opportunities for Caribbean and African carriers.
This BASA adds to Nigeria’s growing portfolio of international aviation partnerships and reflects the Tinubu administration’s determination to enhance air connectivity, promote regional integration and advance diplomatic ties through aviation diplomacy.
