Nigeria and Jamaica are actively working towards establishing a direct flight route as part of their efforts to enhance the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between both nations. This development was officially revealed on Wednesday in a statement issued by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Nigeria’s Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo recently met with the Jamaican Ambassador to Nigeria, Lincoln Downer, and his Consular, Andre Hibbert, in Abuja to discuss the initiative. Ambassador Downer emphasised the importance of strengthening diplomatic relations, particularly in the aviation sector, by reviewing and improving the existing BASA framework.

“I have been tasked by my country to assess and enhance diplomatic engagements between Jamaica and Nigeria, especially regarding air services,” Downer stated. He further highlighted the increasing interest in Nigerian culture in Jamaica, citing the widespread popularity of Afrobeat music and Nollywood films. According to him, this cultural exchange reinforces the need for improved diplomatic and air connectivity between the two countries.

In response, Minister Keyamo expressed enthusiasm for the initiative and assured Downer of Nigeria’s commitment to expediting the BASA process. “I am eager to commence discussions on the BASA. To ensure swift progress, we will establish a dedicated committee to facilitate the process,” Keyamo affirmed. He also expressed his willingness to visit Jamaica, if necessary, to finalize and sign the agreement.

Ambassador Downer further revealed that Jamaica currently lacks a national airline and relies on neighboring Trinidad and Tobago for air transport. He suggested integrating the BASA agreements between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago to bridge the gap in air services. He also noted the increasing demand for direct travel between Nigeria and Jamaica, underscoring the importance of establishing a seamless air route between the two nations.