Nigeria and UAE Enhance Aviation Collaboration with Updated BASA Agreement

During a high-level meeting with Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE’s Minister of Economy, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, signed an amended Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) on Tuesday, February 11.

The agreement aims to strengthen aviation cooperation between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates, allowing for greater connectivity and collaboration between the two nations.

Tunde Moshood, the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, announced the signing, which took place on the sidelines of the 2025 ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS) in Abu Dhabi. This development follows less than a year after Emirates Airlines resumed flights to Nigeria, having previously halted services due to issues with repatriating funds and a visa ban on Nigerians.

The updated BASA guarantees reciprocal rights for both countries, fostering improved aviation relations. Keyamo emphasized the importance of enhancing connectivity between Nigeria and the UAE, particularly through codeshare partnerships and interlining opportunities for Nigerian airlines. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri acknowledged Keyamo’s dedication, stating, “The Nigeria Aviation Minister is a man who keeps his word and for us, that’s everything.”

Keyamo also advocated for a reassessment of the UAE’s visa restrictions on Nigerians, highlighting that easing these limitations would boost passenger traffic and benefit both economies. Additionally, both countries agreed to sign a Technical Cooperation Agreement to focus on capacity building and technical support in key aviation areas such as safety, regulation, environment, airport facilitation, and security.

The collaboration reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to advancing its aviation sector to meet international standards and strengthening global partnerships. Keyamo reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to work closely with the UAE to maximize the benefits of this enhanced cooperation.

The ICAO GISS 2025, held at the Emirates Palace, brought together over 35 ministers from 191 countries, 1,500 aviation professionals, and 70 exhibitors. The event showcased the UAE’s Global Sustainable Aviation Marketplace (GSAM), promoting cooperation and innovation in sustainable aviation.