In a historic move to deepen aviation ties between Africa and the Caribbean, Nigeria and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago have signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) that will for the first time establish direct air connectivity between the two regions.

The agreement was signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Works and Transport, Rohan Sinanan, during a formal ceremony at Piarco International Airport in Trinidad and Tobago. The milestone marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations and advancing global aviation partnerships.

According to Tunde Moshood, media adviser to Minister Keyamo, the agreement is the result of years of diplomatic and technical negotiations that trace back to the administration of Nigeria’s former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

“Today’s signing not only fulfills a long-standing bilateral vision initiated during President Obasanjo’s time but also represents our commitment to expanding Nigeria’s global aviation footprint,” said Keyamo at the ceremony. “This agreement will enhance trade, tourism, cultural exchange, and connectivity between Nigeria and the Caribbean region.”

Minister Sinanan echoed the enthusiasm, noting that the agreement paves the way for greater cooperation between Caribbean and African aviation sectors, with vast potential for mutual economic benefit.

The agreement grants designated airlines from both countries the rights to operate passenger and cargo flights, enter into commercial partnerships, and access each other’s territories under mutually agreed terms. It is expected to facilitate increased people-to-people interaction, boost tourism, and strengthen economic ties.

This BASA adds to Nigeria’s growing portfolio of international aviation accords and aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s broader agenda to enhance global mobility for Nigerians, promote regional integration, and foster stronger diplomatic relations through aviation diplomacy.