The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has met with the Algerian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Mezoued Hosine, to discuss the implementation of the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Algeria.
The meeting, which took place during a courtesy visit by the ambassador, focused on expediting the necessary processes to commence flight operations on the Algeria-Abuja-Douala route.
Ambassador Hosine expressed Algeria’s strong interest in launching direct air services connecting Algeria, Nigeria, and Cameroon, citing its significance in enhancing economic and diplomatic ties between the nations. He specifically sought the intervention of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to fast-track the required approvals ahead of the proposed launch date of April 6, 2024.
Welcoming the initiative, Minister Keyamo lauded Algeria’s commitment to strengthening aviation ties with Nigeria. He assured the ambassador of the Ministry’s full support in ensuring all necessary procedures are completed promptly.
“This development aligns with our broader vision to enhance Nigeria’s aviation connectivity with key international destinations,” the Minister stated. “We will work closely with relevant agencies, particularly the NCAA, to ensure all formalities are completed swiftly. This initiative is a long-awaited opportunity, as it will ease travel between Nigeria and neighboring countries. Currently, to travel to Cameroon, one must first fly to Togo, possibly spend the night there, before proceeding to Cameroon. This new route is a welcome development.”
According to the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister, Mr. Tunde Moshood, the meeting marked a crucial milestone in strengthening Nigeria-Algeria relations through enhanced air travel connectivity. He emphasized that the Algeria-Abuja-Douala route would promote trade, tourism, and economic collaboration across both nations and the wider African region.
The Honourable Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fostering bilateral partnerships in aviation and underscored the government’s dedication to improving air travel accessibility.
The move further reinforces Nigeria’s strategic role as a key aviation hub in Africa, paving the way for greater regional integration and economic growth.
