Nigeria, Barbados set course for direct flights as BASA talks gain momentum
Nigeria and Barbados have moved to revive their long-dormant Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA), as Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, paid a working visit to Bridgetown for high-level discussions with Prime Minister Mia Mottley.
The diplomatic engagement follows Nigeria’s landmark BASA signing with Trinidad and Tobago, a deal 22 years in the making, and forms part of a renewed push to deepen aviation partnerships across the Atlantic.
Although Nigeria and Barbados had previously signed a BASA, both governments acknowledged that the agreement had become obsolete and no longer reflected the demands of modern aviation.
During the meeting, officials explored ways to overhaul the framework to support direct commercial flights, streamlined cargo operations, and reciprocal air traffic rights between the two countries.
Keyamo stressed that improved air connectivity aligns with the Nigerian government’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” which prioritises international collaboration, economic growth, and cultural exchange.
“Direct flights between Nigeria and Barbados will not only encourage trade and tourism, but also serve to reconnect the peoples of Africa and the Caribbean,” he said.
Prime Minister Mottley shared a similar perspective, noting that renewed air links could generate significant benefits across sectors. “Greater access between our two nations can drive tourism, stimulate investment, and reinforce the historical and cultural ties that unite our regions,” she said.
With Barbados boasting a robust tourism and financial services sector, and Nigeria offering a dynamic and expanding market, both countries stand to gain from stronger aviation ties. For Nigeria, the move supports its broader ambition to become a leading aviation hub in West Africa with direct links to the Caribbean.
As part of the follow-up process, both parties have agreed to hold technical-level negotiations in Abuja, where details of the revised BASA will be finalised. Prime Minister Mottley has accepted an invitation to attend the next round of talks.
The updated agreement is expected to mirror elements of Nigeria’s recent deal with Trinidad and Tobago, incorporating contemporary features such as enhanced cargo operations and clearly designated routes for participating airlines.
Observers see this as a strategic effort by Nigeria to strengthen its role in global aviation diplomacy and to build economic bridges between Africa and the Caribbean.
While challenges remain, including high operational costs, availability of capable carriers, and regulatory alignment, both nations appear committed to resolving these issues as they work towards a mutually beneficial agreement.
