Nigeria and Canada sign pact for direct flights, boosting trade

Nigeria and Canada have formalized a landmark Air Transport Agreement, paving the way for direct scheduled flights between the two countries. This historic accord, signed at the Canadian High Commission in Abuja, is expected to dramatically enhance connectivity and foster deeper economic and cultural ties.

The agreement represents a significant expansion of the existing bilateral air services framework. It allows both Nigeria and Canada to designate multiple airlines to operate scheduled services. Under the new terms, each country is entitled to 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly all-cargo flights. A key feature of the pact is the granting of Fifth Freedom Traffic Rights for cargo operations, enabling designated airlines to transport freight between two foreign countries, provided the service originates or terminates in their home country.

Officials stated that the agreement is designed to reduce travel time, improve passenger convenience, and lower logistics costs for both passengers and cargo operators. The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development views this as a major milestone, promoting tourism, facilitating trade, and creating new opportunities for airlines and businesses in both nations. The elimination of transit through third countries is anticipated to streamline travel significantly.

The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from both governments, including Mr. Mohammed Ahmed Tijjani, Director of Air Transport Management for Nigeria's Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, and Ms. Shendra Melia, Canada’s Chief Air Negotiator for Global Affairs. This agreement is projected to strengthen commercial and cultural ties, marking a new era of aviation cooperation between Nigeria and Canada.

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The agreement is expected to significantly enhance air connectivity between Nigeria and Canada by paving the way for the commencement of direct flights, thereby reducing travel time, improving passenger convenience, lowering logistics costs, and strengthening commercial and cultural ties between both nations.