Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, has held separate high-level meetings in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with the Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Engr. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, and the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral aviation relations and enhance operational efficiency ahead of the 2026 Hajj operations. This was contained in a statement signed by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
The Honourable Minister was accompanied by the Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, alongside key Directors from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
Central to the discussions were critical Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) and diplomatic matters aimed at improving cooperation between both countries in the aviation sector. Both sides deliberated extensively on the need to review the existing BASA framework to reflect present-day realities and evolving dynamics in global aviation.
Additionally, both parties examined the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2015, particularly as it relates to the sharing formula for the annual airlift of pilgrims by designated airlines from Nigeria and Saudi Arabia. The review is intended to ensure fairness, efficiency, and mutual benefit for both countries.
Other key issues discussed included the allocation of slots to Nigerian designated carriers (flag carriers) for the 2026 Hajj operations, as well as the determination of the percentage of pilgrims to be airlifted by airlines from both countries. The meetings also addressed operational concerns affecting Nigerian airlines, with a focus on enhancing their performance and ensuring seamless Hajj operations this year.
The engagements were marked by frank, constructive, and productive exchanges, with both sides demonstrating a strong commitment to deepening aviation ties and resolving all outstanding issues in a mutually beneficial manner.
The Honourable Minister expressed appreciation to the Saudi authorities for their continued cooperation and support, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to upholding international aviation standards and fostering strategic partnerships.
Decisions reached during the meetings, particularly those concerning the 2026 Hajj operations, have been immediately communicated to Nigeria’s designated airlines for prompt implementation.
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