From Sola Ojo, Abuja
In furtherance to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to establish a direct air route between Nigeria and South America, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has arrived in Brazil on a strategic working visit.
The Minister touched down in Brazil late yesterday, accompanied by the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, and representatives of local Nigerian airline operators.
Special Adviser, Media and Communications to the Minister, Tunde Moshood said on Tuesday that the high-level engagement with global aircraft manufacturer and lessor, Embraer, is taking place at its headquarters in São José dos Campos, São Paulo State.
Embraer, a renowned leader in regional aircraft production, is collaborating with the Nigerian delegation to explore avenues for strengthening Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem through enhanced access to modern aircraft, favourable leasing options, and a network of credible financiers.
“We had extensive discussions with Embraer on how they can support our aviation sector with their vast network of lessors and financial institutions.
“The goal is to empower Nigerian operators with the tools and partnerships necessary for growth and expansion”, Tunde quoted his principal.
“The working visit continues today in Brasilia, where the Honourable Minister is scheduled to meet with his Brazilian counterpart, the Minister of Ports and Airports, Sílvio Costa Filho.
“Central to the agenda is the review and adjustment of the existing Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Brazil to allow for the immediate commencement of direct flight operations between the two countries.
“This historic initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to boost regional connectivity, expand international trade, and foster closer diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and South America”, Tunde added.
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