Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo SAN, met with Jamaican Ambassador Lincoln Downer on March 11, 2025, to discuss strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.
Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister, Tunde Moshood, said the meeting marked the beginning of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) process, aimed at improving air connectivity and trade between Nigeria and Jamaica.
He said Ambassador Downer expressed his deep appreciation for Nigeria, revealing an intriguing discovery from his four months as the Jamaican envoy to the country.
“I have since discovered that Nigeria might be my ancestral home after all,” said Ambassador Downer. This personal revelation set the tone for a productive discussion on strengthening the ties between the two nations, particularly in the areas of air services, trade, and investment,” the Ambassador was quoted.
He said the ambassador emphasized the potential for mutually beneficial diplomatic engagements between Jamaica and Nigeria.
To Tunde, “the Ambassador highlighted the importance of improving and enhancing bilateral relations, including reviewing the existing Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA).
“Ambassador Downer disclosed that Jamaica currently lacks a national carrier, relying on neighboring Trinidad and Tobago for air transport.
“He proposed the idea of combining the BASA between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago to address the air services gap, underscoring the increasing demand for travel from Nigeria to Jamaica.
“The Jamaican Ambassador also shared the growing interest in Nigerian culture, particularly Afrobeat music and Nollywood films, which are trending in Jamaica.
“This cultural exchange, he noted, further reinforces the need for enhanced diplomatic and air connectivity.”
Tunde said his principal welcomed the Ambassador’s proposals and expressed eagerness to take the next steps.
“I am delighted to start the BASA arrangements. To ensure a swift resolution, we will set up a committee to expedite the process,” the Minister was quoted.
“He further committed to visiting Jamaica if necessary, stating that he would be willing to travel to Jamaica to finalize and sign the BASA agreement in person,” Tunde added.
A key area of focus during the meeting was the matter of air travel and connectivity.
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