Amanze ChinonyeNigeria and Brazil are set to sign a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish direct flights between the two countries, a move expected to boost trade, tourism, and cultural ties.
The agreement, framed as a Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA), will be formalized during President Tinubu’s state visit to Brasília on August 24–25, 2025. Aviation authorities confirmed that all legal and ministerial clearances have been completed, clearing the way for the signing.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelObafemi Bajomo, Special Adviser on Foreign Direct Investments to the Aviation Minister, said the MoU had been vetted by the Ministry of Justice and approved by the Federal Executive Council. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo is expected to accompany the president.
“At the heart of this visit lies a long-anticipated breakthrough the signing of BASA a milestone that promises to redefine air connectivity, trade, and cultural exchange between the two largest economies in Africa and South America,” he said.
The initiative began in May 2025, when Keyamo led a Nigerian delegation to Brazil to open bilateral talks with his counterpart, Minister Silvio Costa Filho. “Those discussions went beyond ceremonial pleasantries,” Bajomo said. “They birthed a technical working group tasked with harmonizing the BASA for imminent signature.”
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Under the deal, Nigerian carrier Air Peace will operate passenger flights, while Brazilian airline LATAM is expected to handle cargo. The agreement could allow up to five weekly flights, likely linking Lagos and São Paulo, with Caverton potentially providing additional capacity.
The partnership also covers aviation technology and infrastructure. Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer is in talks with Nigeria to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Lagos, serving aircraft across West and Central Africa. Both countries are exploring pilot training and airport development initiatives, which are expected to open new trade routes and boost tourism.
The agreement carries cultural significance. Brazil hosts the largest population of people of African descent outside Africa, with strong Yoruba heritage ties to Nigeria. Analysts say the direct flights could deepen cultural festivals, tourism exchanges, and people-to-people connections.
If implemented, the Nigeria-Brazil air link will not only make travel faster and more convenient but also position both countries as gateways to their continents. For Nigeria, it promises fresh opportunities for investment, trade diversification, and stronger global connections at a time when the government is seeking to attract foreign capital and partnerships.
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