Nigeria and Jamaica are taking steps to establish a direct flight route as part of efforts to enhance bilateral relations and air connectivity between the two nations.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, discussed the proposal with the Jamaican Ambassador to Nigeria, Lincoln Downer, and his Consular, Andre Hibbert, during a meeting in Abuja.
Downer emphasized the importance of improving air services, stating, “I have been tasked by my country to review and improve on the diplomatic engagements between Jamaica and Nigeria, especially concerning air services.”
Highlighting the growing cultural ties, he added, “There is no reason why we should not have a direct flight between our countries. Nigerians love Jamaica, and there is a rising demand for Jamaican spices in Nigeria.”
Keyamo welcomed the initiative and assured swift action. “I am delighted to start the BASA arrangements. To ensure a swift resolution, we will set up a committee to expedite the process,” he said, expressing willingness to visit Jamaica to finalize the agreement.
Downer further revealed Jamaica’s reliance on Trinidad and Tobago for air transport due to the absence of a national carrier. He suggested a collaborative BASA agreement between Nigeria, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago to bridge the gap.
In a personal revelation, Downer shared, “I have since discovered that Nigeria might be my ancestral home after all.”
Discussions are expected to continue in the coming months to finalize the air service agreement.