The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has met Trinidad and Tobago High Commissioner, Wendell De Landro, in Abuja to finalise the ratification of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between Nigeria and the Caribbean nation.
This was contained in a statement on Tuesday signed by Keyamo’s Special Adviser, Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood.
The ratification is expected to pave the way for a direct flight connection between the two countries.
The BASA agreement was originally initiated almost 15 years ago but has not been ratified until now.
In 2009, Trinidad and Tobago’s Ambassador, Victoria Mendez-Charles, had indicated her country’s interest to enter into an aviation pact with Nigeria during a courtesy visit to the then Minister of Aviation, Babatunde Omotoba.
BASA, also known as an air transport agreement, is a treaty between two countries that outlines the conditions under which air services can be operated between those countries.
The statement read in part, “The initiative stems from the recognition that the current travel routes between Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago are arduous and time-consuming, often taking up to 24 hours or more on connecting flights.
“However, with a direct flight, the journey can be completed in just seven and a half hours. This significant reduction in travel time is poised to revolutionise bilateral relations and enhance economic and cultural exchanges between the two nations.”
De Landro expressed his commitment to expediting the process.
He highlighted the potentials for increased tourism, entertainment, and commerce that a direct flight connection would bring.
In response, Keyamo commended the High Commissioner’s initiative, noting the profound cultural similarities between Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago.
He said, “This agreement is commendable and timely. It will not only foster closer ties between our nations but also unlock numerous economic opportunities.”
To ensure swift progress, the minister has directed the establishment of a dedicated working committee tasked with expediting the ratification process and facilitating the involvement of a dedicated airline to service the direct route.
