Nigeria and Jamaica are set to establish a direct flight route as both nations move to enhance their Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA).
This development was revealed in a statement issued on Wednesday by Tunde Moshood, the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
During a meeting in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, hosted the Jamaican Ambassador to Nigeria, Lincoln Downer, and his consular, Andre Hibbert, to discuss advancing air connectivity between the two countries.
Ambassador Downer emphasized the need to improve diplomatic engagements, particularly in the aviation sector, noting the increasing cultural and economic ties between Nigeria and Jamaica.
“I have been tasked by my country to review and improve on the diplomatic engagements between Jamaica and Nigeria, especially concerning air services,” Downer stated.
He highlighted the growing influence of Nigerian culture in Jamaica, particularly Afrobeat music and Nollywood films, which he said have gained popularity among Jamaicans.
“There is no reason why we should not have a direct flight between our countries. Nigerians love Jamaica, and there is a rising demand for Jamaican spices in Nigeria,” he added.
In response, Keyamo welcomed the proposal and assured swift action on the agreement.
“I am delighted to start the BASA arrangements. To ensure a swift resolution, we will set up a committee to expedite the process,” he said, adding that he would be willing to travel to Jamaica to finalize and sign the agreement.
Downer further disclosed that Jamaica currently lacks a national carrier and relies on Trinidad and Tobago for air transport. He suggested incorporating Trinidad and Tobago into the BASA to address the gap and accommodate the increasing travel demand between Nigeria and Jamaica.
The ambassador also shared a personal connection, stating that he has begun to see Nigeria as his possible ancestral home after spending four months in the country.
The proposed direct flight is expected to boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the two nations, strengthening diplomatic and economic ties.
