Nigeria and Jamaica are exploring the possibility of establishing a direct flight route as part of efforts to strengthen their Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA).
This was revealed in a statement on Wednesday, March 12, by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
Jamaican Ambassador to Nigeria, Lincoln Downer, and his consular officer, Andre Hibbert, met with Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo in Abuja to discuss improving diplomatic and air service ties.
Downer highlighted the growing interest in Nigerian culture in Jamaica, particularly Afrobeat music and Nollywood films, and stressed the need for stronger diplomatic and travel links.
“I have been tasked by my country to review and improve on the diplomatic engagements between Jamaica and Nigeria, especially concerning air services,” said Downer.
He also noted the rising demand for Jamaican spices in Nigeria and questioned why a direct flight between both nations had yet to be established.
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“There is no reason why we should not have a direct flight between our countries. Nigerians love Jamaica, and there is a rising demand for Jamaican spices in Nigeria,” he added.
In response, Keyamo expressed his enthusiasm for the proposal and pledged to take immediate action.
“I am delighted to start the BASA arrangements. To ensure a swift resolution, we will set up a committee to expedite the process,” Keyamo said.
He also committed to travelling to Jamaica if necessary to finalise and sign the agreement.
Downer acknowledged that Jamaica currently lacks a national airline and relies on Trinidad and Tobago for air transport. He suggested a partnership involving both Caribbean nations to bridge the air connectivity gap with Nigeria.
Reflecting on his time in the country, the ambassador expressed a personal connection to Nigeria.
“I have since discovered that Nigeria might be my ancestral home after all,” said Downer.