July 23, (THEWILL) — Nigeria and Egypt on Tuesday formalised a new phase of bilateral cooperation with the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and an Enhanced Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) aimed at strengthening air connectivity and technical collaboration between both countries.
The signing took place in Abuja during a visit by Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Badr Abdellatty, to Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
The agreements, which originated during the 2024 International Civil Aviation Negotiations (ICAN) Conference, are expected to bolster aviation ties by enhancing route access, fostering technical exchange, and opening new investment opportunities in the aviation sectors of both countries.
Describing the deal as a “strategic breakthrough,” Keyamo said the agreement reflects the shared commitment of Nigeria and Egypt to deepen cooperation across tourism, trade, and aviation infrastructure.
“This agreement is not only a fulfilment of our engagements during ICAN 2024, but also a bold step towards enhancing air connectivity, boosting tourism, promoting trade, and facilitating knowledge transfer in aviation management,” he said.
While the Enhanced BASA provides for expanded route access and operational flexibility for airlines from both countries, the MoU covers areas such as technical cooperation, training, and aviation infrastructure development.
In his remarks, Dr. Abdellatty expressed Egypt’s readiness to build a lasting and mutually beneficial partnership with Nigeria, especially in sectors where aviation can serve as a catalyst for broader economic development.
He praised Keyamo for his leadership and reform efforts in modernising Nigeria’s aviation industry, describing Nigeria as a strategic ally on the African continent.
Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to fully implement the terms of the agreements in the spirit of mutual respect and shared progress.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by senior officials from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, including the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, as well as representatives of the Egyptian diplomatic mission in Nigeria.
The development is the latest in Nigeria’s push to reposition its aviation sector through strategic international partnerships, modern regulatory reforms, and increased private sector participation
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
