Nigeria and Canada have signed an expanded Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA), a landmark aviation deal expected to open the door for direct scheduled flights between both countries while boosting trade, tourism, investment, education, and cultural exchanges.
The agreement was signed in Abuja by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), on behalf of the Federal Government, and representatives of the Canadian Government. The pact updates the existing air services framework between the two countries, introducing more liberal operating rights for designated airlines.
Under the revised agreement, airlines designated by both governments will be able to commence direct scheduled passenger and cargo services once they obtain the necessary regulatory approvals from the relevant aviation authorities. The arrangement is also expected to provide greater flexibility through code-sharing arrangements, allowing airlines from both countries to market seats on each other’s flights and improve connectivity for passengers.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Keyamo described the agreement as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s aviation sector, saying it aligns with the Federal Government’s agenda of expanding international air connectivity and positioning Nigeria as a strategic aviation hub in Africa.
He noted that while the agreement does not automatically translate into immediate flight operations, it establishes the legal and regulatory framework that enables airlines from both countries to begin discussions on launching direct services. Airlines must still complete commercial negotiations and secure operational approvals before flights can commence.
The minister explained that the expanded BASA would deepen economic relations between Nigeria and Canada by making travel easier for business executives, tourists, students, and members of the Nigerian diaspora residing in Canada.
Industry stakeholders believe the agreement could significantly reduce travel time for passengers who currently rely on connecting flights through Europe, the Middle East, or the United States to travel between Nigeria and Canada. Direct connectivity is also expected to lower travel costs over time, improve cargo movement, and create new opportunities for exporters and investors.
The Canadian Government has consistently described expanded air transport agreements as vital tools for promoting international trade, strengthening supply chains, increasing tourism, and fostering people-to-people relationships. Similar agreements signed by Canada with other countries have paved the way for increased passenger and cargo services.
The agreement also comes amid growing bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Canada in areas including education, technology, renewable energy, agriculture, mining, infrastructure, and security. Both countries recently reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties during high-level bilateral engagements in Abuja.
Although no airline has yet announced a commencement date for direct Nigeria–Canada flights, aviation experts say the expanded BASA removes one of the biggest regulatory barriers and is expected to encourage airlines from both countries to explore commercially viable direct routes in the near future.
