The Federal Government of Nigeria has given assurance to the United States of America (USA) of its commitment to establishing a direct flight from Nigeria to Houston, Texas, in a move aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.
During a visit to the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace in Abuja, a delegation from the USA, led by Houston Texas Mayor, Mr. Sylvester Turner, received this commitment from Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, the permanent secretary of the Ministry.
Meribole expressed the administration’s receptiveness to investment, tourism, and the enhancement of existing bilateral ties. He emphasized that all necessary modalities for the Bilateral Air Services Agreement to facilitate direct flights to Houston would commence promptly after the appointment and deployment of new Ministers.
Mayor Turner conveyed his gratitude for the hospitality extended by the Nigerian Government during their visit. He emphasized the objective of building stronger ties between the United States and Africa, with Houston being Africa’s second-largest urban trade partner in the US and a significant hub for the Nigerian diaspora.
Houston’s strategic geographic location and robust infrastructure make it a gateway for trade to the central and western United States. Mayor Turner’s visit aimed to complement Houston’s initiatives to expand relations with Nigeria, with a focus on healthcare, technology, agriculture, energy, and education.
Ambassador Akinyemi Bolaji of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs also assured the Mayor that the proposal for a consulate office in Houston would be duly considered. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs pledged to prioritize Houston, Texas, as the first city to receive such a consulate office request.
The commitment to establish a direct flight and consulate office in Houston underscores Nigeria’s eagerness to strengthen its ties with the United States, while also providing opportunities for enhanced trade, investment, and cooperation in various sectors between the two nations.
The move is expected to foster greater connectivity and promote mutually beneficial exchanges, further solidifying the relationship between Nigeria and the United States
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