Nigeria, Jamaica in talks to begin direct flights

By Abubakar Yunusa

Nigeria and Jamaica are set to explore the possibility of establishing a direct flight route between both countries.

In a statement on Wednesday, Tunde Moshood, special adviser on media and communications to the ministry of aviation and aerospace development, said the matter was discussed during a diplomatic meeting in Abuja between Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation, Lincoln Downer, Jamaican ambassador to Nigeria, and Andre Hibbert, his consular.

Moshood said the discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.

“A key area of focus during the meeting was the matter of air travel and connectivity,” he said.

During the meeting, Downer expressed his deep appreciation for Nigeria, revealing a personal connection to the country.

“I have since discovered that Nigeria might be my ancestral home after all,” the ambassador said.

He emphasised the need for improved diplomatic engagements, noting that he had been mandated by his government to review and enhance relations between Jamaica and Nigeria, particularly in the area of air services.

Downer disclosed that Jamaica currently lacks a national carrier and relies on Trinidad and Tobago for air transport.

To bridge the gap, he proposed integrating Jamaica’s BASA with that of Trinidad and Tobago to address the air services gap, underscoring the rising demand for travel between Nigeria and Jamaica.

Cultural exchange was also highlighted as a key aspect of the discussion, with the ambassador citing the rising popularity of Afrobeat music and Nollywood films in Jamaica.

Downer noted that the cultural exchange further strengthens the need for improved diplomatic relations and air connectivity.

“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.

In response, Keyamo welcomed the ambassador’s proposals and expressed enthusiasm about moving forward.

“I am delighted to start the BASA arrangements. To ensure a swift resolution, we will set up a committee to expedite the process,” the minister said.

Keyamo also pledged to visit Jamaica if required, affirming his willingness to personally finalise and sign the BASA agreement.

Moshood said the meeting marks a significant step towards reinforcing the bilateral ties between Jamaica and Nigeria and sets the stage for future collaboration in the aviation, trade, and cultural sectors.