By John Ikani
The Federal Government of Nigeria is on the verge of sealing a deal with Algeria to establish a direct flight route between the two nations.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, revealed this after meeting with a delegation from Algeria, headed by the Algerian ambassador to Nigeria.
According to Keyamo, “There is a longstanding Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Algeria, primarily focused on the Algiers-Lagos route.
“Despite the existing agreement, it has been underutilized for decades. The Algerian delegation sought to revive this neglected air route and expand it to include Abuja and Oran, the second-largest city in Algeria.”
The minister went on to note that the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will undergo a standard bureaucratic process before finalization, with both parties expressing eagerness to expedite the signing.
He welcomed the prospect of Air Algeria operating in Nigeria, emphasizing the positive impact of competition on air ticket prices.
The symbiotic relationship between Algeria and Nigeria is expected to benefit both nations, fostering dynamic partnership and cooperation.
on his part, Algerian Ambassador Hocine Latli stressed that the importance of a direct flight as “a foundation for a robust partnership,” expressing satisfaction with the progress made.
The anticipated agreement aims to reignite collaboration between the two countries in the coming months, marking a pivotal moment in their diplomatic and aviation relations.
