Nigeria and Jamaica are considering the establishment of a direct flight route as both nations seek to strengthen their Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA).

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo engaged with the Jamaican Ambassador to Nigeria, Lincoln Downer, and his Consular, Andre Hibbert, in Abuja to discuss this initiative. According to a statement signed by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the discussions focused on enhancing diplomatic ties and air connectivity.

Downer emphasized the importance of improving the agreement, stating, “I have been tasked by my country to review and improve on the diplomatic engagements between Jamaica and Nigeria, especially concerning air services.” He also highlighted Jamaica’s growing interest in Nigerian culture, particularly Afrobeat music and Nollywood films, reinforcing the need for direct flights.

“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,” Downer added.

Keyamo welcomed the initiative and pledged swift action. “I am delighted to start the BASA arrangements. To ensure a swift resolution, we will set up a committee to expedite the process,” he said. The minister also expressed readiness to visit Jamaica if needed, stating, “I would be willing to travel to Jamaica to finalize and sign the BASA agreement in person.”

During the talks, Downer noted that Jamaica currently lacks a national carrier and relies on Trinidad and Tobago for air transport. He suggested integrating Jamaica into the existing BASA agreement with Trinidad and Tobago to address this challenge.

Expressing his deep appreciation for Nigeria, Downer revealed a personal connection, saying, “I have since discovered that Nigeria might be my ancestral home after all.”