As part of efforts to strengthen civil aviation in Nigeria, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, welcomed the Jamaican Ambassador to Nigeria, Lincoln Downer, and his Consular, Andre Hibbert, to Chart a Cause for Improved Air Travel.
During the meeting, Ambassador Downer expressed his deep appreciation for Nigeria and shared insights from his first four months as Jamaica’s envoy to the country, highlighting notable discoveries about the nation’s aviation sector and bilateral ties.
The details of the engagement were outlined in a press statement issued by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
“This personal revelation set the tone for a productive discussion on strengthening the ties between the two nations, particularly in the areas of air services, trade, and investment.”
Ambassador Downer emphasized the potential for mutually beneficial diplomatic engagements between Jamaica and Nigeria.
He highlighted the importance of improving and enhancing bilateral relations, including reviewing the existing Bilateral Air Services Agreement(BASA).
“I have been tasked by my country to review and improve on the diplomatic engagements between Jamaica and Nigeria, especially concerning air services,” Ambassador Downer stated.
A key area of focus during the meeting was the matter of air travel and connectivity.
Ambassador Downer disclosed that Jamaica currently lacks a national carrier, relying on neighboring Trinidad and Tobago for air transport.
He proposed the idea of combining the BASA between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago to address the air services gap, underscoring the increasing demand for travel from Nigeria to Jamaica.
The Jamaican Ambassador also shared the growing interest in Nigerian culture, particularly Afrobeat music and Nollywood films, which are trending in Jamaica.
This cultural exchange, he noted, further reinforces the need for enhanced diplomatic 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.“
The aviation Minister, in his response, welcomed the Ambassador’s proposals and expressed his eagerness to take the next steps.
“I am delighted to start the BASA arrangements to ensure a swift resolution, we will set up a committee to expedite the process.”
He further committed to visiting Jamaica if necessary, stating that he would be willing to travel to Jamaica to finalize and sign the BASA agreement in person.
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.
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