Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
Following a meeting held in Kuala Lampur, Malaysia by delegates of the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Arab Republic of Egypt which culminated in a review of the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between the two countries in line with the New Africa Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) BASA template for African countries, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Arab Republic of Egypt to deepen cooperation in the aviation sector. The event was held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja. This was contained in a statement signed by Odutayo Oluseyi, Head, Press and Public Relations.
Describing the signing of the MoU as a historic milestone, signalling a new chapter of collaboration and shared prosperity between Nigeria and Egypt, Hon. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo SAN,CON, FCIArb.UK emphasized that the MoU reflects the mutual commitment of both nations to expand bilateral ties through aviation, a key driver of commerce, tourism, and diplomacy. He stated that the collaboration is expected to unlock new opportunities in technical cooperation, route expansion, and joint investment in civil aviation infrastructure across the continent.
While thanking the Egyptian delegation for their continued partnership, Keyamo added that the agreement is a strategic move towards regional integration, enhanced service delivery, and greater connectivity in Africa.
Responding, the Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Badr Abdelatty expressed gratitude for the warm reception and conveyed greetings from President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. He reiterated Egypt’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Nigeria in all sectors, noting that both nations represent key pillars of stability and progress in Africa. He further highlighted Egypt Air’s current operations, with over 600 flights annually to Lagos and Kano, and expressed a desire to increase frequency in response to high demand from travellers between both countries.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, also welcomed the Egyptian delegation, describing the visit as a reflection of the enduring friendship and deepening ties between both countries. He commended the Nigerian Minister’s flexibility in honouring the visit, underscoring the importance Nigeria places on its relationship with Egypt.
Dr. Kana said the vast opportunities for trade and business already in existence between both countries, particularly in areas such as aviation, infrastructure, and agriculture, reflect the strong commercial ties and mutual benefits for both nations. He further said, many Nigerians view Egypt as a second home, particularly those in business and Public service and advocated for enhanced collaboration between Nigeria, Egypt, and South Africa to drive technological advancement and continental development.
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