In a major step towards deepening diplomatic and economic relations, Nigeria and Jamaica are actively working towards establishing a direct flight route between both nations. This initiative comes as part of a broader effort to enhance the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) and foster closer cooperation in trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
The announcement was made in a statement released by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Nigeria’s Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, on Wednesday.
During a high-level meeting in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, received the Jamaican Ambassador to Nigeria, Lincoln Downer, alongside his Consular, Andre Hibbert, to discuss the way forward. The discussions centered on the need to strengthen aviation ties and improve direct air connectivity between the two nations, which share historical and cultural links dating back centuries.
Ambassador Downer highlighted the immense potential that direct flights could unlock, emphasizing how closer aviation ties would significantly boost tourism, trade, and cultural interactions. He underscored the increasing popularity of Nigerian culture in Jamaica, noting the widespread appreciation of Afrobeat music, Nollywood movies, and Nigerian cuisine among Jamaicans.
“I have been tasked by my country to review and enhance diplomatic engagements between Jamaica and Nigeria, particularly in air services. There is no reason why we should not have a direct flight between our countries. Nigerians love Jamaica, and there is a growing demand for Jamaican spices in Nigeria,” Downer stated.
In response, Minister Keyamo expressed strong support for the initiative and assured swift action to bring it to fruition. He announced plans to establish a special committee to expedite the BASA discussions and finalize the necessary agreements.
“I am delighted to kick-start the BASA arrangements. To ensure swift implementation, we will set up a dedicated committee to fast-track the process. If necessary, I am willing to travel to Jamaica to personally finalize and sign the agreement,” Keyamo affirmed.
Further highlighting Jamaica’s current air travel challenges, Downer disclosed that the country does not have a national airline and currently relies on neighboring Trinidad and Tobago for air transport. He proposed the possibility of integrating Jamaica’s BASA with Trinidad and Tobago to create a seamless aviation network that would cater to growing travel demands between Nigeria and Jamaica.
Interestingly, the ambassador also shared a personal revelation about his time in Nigeria, hinting at an ancestral connection to the country.
“I have since discovered that Nigeria might be my ancestral home after all,” Downer remarked, expressing his deep appreciation for Nigeria’s hospitality and cultural vibrancy.
This development is expected to further strengthen Nigeria-Jamaica relations and open up new opportunities for business and tourism between the two nations. With the growing global interest in Nigerian entertainment, food, and culture, a direct flight route is set to facilitate easier travel and promote stronger people-to-people ties.
As discussions progress, stakeholders remain optimistic that this historic aviation partnership will soon become a reality, ushering in a new era of connectivity and collaboration between Nig6eria and Jamaica.
