Nigeria, Egypt Forge Agreement to Enhance Aviation Cooperation

The Federal Government of Nigeria, on July 21, formalised a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Arab Republic of Egypt, marking a pivotal step in strengthening aviation ties between the two nations.

The signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development headquarters in Abuja, was led by Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, and Badr Abdellatty, Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

According to Tunde Moshood, Keyamo’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, the agreement, originally initiated during the 2024 International Civil Aviation Negotiations (ICAN) Conference, represents a strategic milestone in advancing bilateral cooperation, enhancing air connectivity, and unlocking new opportunities in aviation infrastructure and technical exchange.

“The enhanced BASA allows for expanded route access and operational flexibility for designated carriers from both countries, while the MoU covers technical cooperation, training, and infrastructure development initiatives,” the statement reads.

Describing the signing as a “strategic breakthrough,” Keyamo stated that the agreement reflects the mutual commitment of both countries to strengthening connectivity, facilitating technical exchanges, and opening new investment opportunities within their respective aviation sectors.

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“This agreement is not only a fulfilment of the engagements we started during ICAN 2024 but also a bold step toward enhancing air connectivity, boosting tourism, promoting trade, and fostering knowledge transfer in aviation management and infrastructure,” the minister was quoted as saying.

On his part, Abdellatty expressed Egypt’s desire to build a lasting and mutually beneficial relationship with Nigeria, particularly in sectors where aviation serves as a catalyst for broader economic growth.

He commended Keyamo for his visionary leadership and proactive drive to modernise Nigeria’s aviation sector, noting that Egypt views Nigeria as a strategic partner on the continent.

The statement said both ministers reaffirmed their governments’ commitment to implementing the provisions of the agreement in the spirit of mutual respect and shared progress.

“The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, including the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana mni, and representatives from the Egyptian diplomatic mission in Nigeria,” he said.

This statement noted that the development contributes to Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to reposition its aviation sector through international cooperation, modern regulatory frameworks, and increased private sector participation in aviation infrastructure.

 

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For more updates on airline developments in Nigeria, visit Rex Clarke Adventures – Airline News.

 

Frequently Asked Questions & Answers (FAQ)

What is the new agreement between Nigeria and Egypt?

Nigeria and Egypt signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday, 22 July 2025. This agreement aims to enhance air travel and technical cooperation between the two countries.

How will this aviation agreement benefit travellers and the economy?

The agreement will benefit travellers by allowing for expanded route access and more operational flexibility for airlines, which can lead to more direct flights and potentially lower fares. Economically, it aims to boost tourism, facilitate trade, and create new investment opportunities in both nations’ aviation sectors.

Who signed the agreement?

The agreement was signed by Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, and Badr Abdellatty, Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, during a ceremony in Abuja.

What does the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) cover specifically?

The MoU focuses on the technical aspects of the partnership, covering cooperation in areas such as professional training for aviation personnel and joint initiatives for developing aviation infrastructure, leveraging Egypt’s experience to help modernise Nigeria’s sector.

What is a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA)?

A Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) is a treaty between two countries that allows their designated international commercial air carriers to operate passenger and cargo services between their territories. It sets the rules for air transport, including routes, flight frequency, and types of aircraft used.

When will the new flight schedules between Nigeria and Egypt begin?

The official announcement does not specify an exact start date for new flight schedules. The agreement first establishes the legal and operational framework, and designated airlines from both countries will announce new routes and schedules in due course.