President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed a landmark Bilateral Air Service Agreement with Brazil, creating direct air connections between Nigeria and South America’s largest economy. The agreement was formalised on Monday during Tinubu’s official state visit to Brasília.
A statement by Tunde Moshood, media aide to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, confirmed the signing.
The ceremony was attended by President Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, signed for Nigeria, while Brazil’s Minister of Transport, Silvio Costa Filho, signed for Brazil.
The Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) provides a framework for direct flights between both countries. It is expected to boost trade, tourism, investment, and diplomatic relations.
The statement noted, “It also marks a key step in Nigeria’s broader efforts to strengthen international partnerships and improve global connectivity.”
Tinubu travelled with a delegation that included Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun. Others were Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, and senior government officials.
Brazilian President Lula welcomed the agreement. He pledged his administration’s commitment to expand cooperation with Nigeria in aviation, agriculture, and infrastructure. He described the BASA as a reflection of strong ties and an opportunity to deepen economic and cultural collaboration.
During the state visit, Tinubu is scheduled to meet with key Brazilian government leaders. These include the President of the Senate, the President of the Chamber of Deputies, and the President of the Supreme Federal Court.
The two-day visit will feature high-level talks between Nigerian and Brazilian delegations across different sectors. Discussions are expected to explore opportunities for bilateral investment, mutual growth, and long-term partnerships.
According to the statement, “The ongoing state visit will also see President Tinubu meeting the President of the Brazilian Senate at the National Congress, the President of the Chamber of Deputies, and the President of the Supreme Federal Court. The working visit, which continues tomorrow, will also feature high-level engagements between Nigerian and Brazilian delegations across various sectors, underscoring both nations’ commitment to building a future of mutual growth and prosperity.”