Nigeria has signed a new air service deal with Brazil that will allow direct flights between the two countries. The agreement is expected to make travel easier, boost trade, and bring both nations closer.
The deal was signed in Brazil by Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, and his Brazilian counterpart, Silvio Costa Filho. Both presidents, Bola Tinubu and Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, were present at the signing.
Tunde Moshood, media aide to the aviation minister, described the agreement as an important step for Tinubu’s government in pushing stronger international partnerships and making business and travel simpler.
Until now, Nigerians flying to Brazil, or Brazilians travelling to Nigeria, usually had to pass through Europe or another country first. With this agreement, flights will be direct, from Lagos or Abuja straight to cities like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro.
President Lula da Silva welcomed the deal, saying Brazil is keen to expand cooperation with Nigeria not only in aviation but also in agriculture and infrastructure.
Tinubu, who began a two-day visit to Brazil on Monday, is holding further talks with Brazilian officials. He travelled with top members of his cabinet, including Finance Minister Wale Edun and Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari, to explore new opportunities for both countries.
