Nigerian carrier Air Peace is set to launch a new direct flight route from Lagos to São Paulo, Brazil, following the signing of a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between the two nations.
The new route is expected to significantly enhance trade and cultural exchanges between the world's two largest Black-populated countries.
The landmark agreement was a key outcome of President Bola Tinubu's state visit to Brazil, where he and his Brazilian counterpart, President Lula, witnessed the signing of five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to deepen cooperation.
Brazil’s Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filhos, and Nigeria's Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, formalized the BASA, paving the way for the direct flights.
"Increasing the direct connections between Nigeria and Brazil is another essential step to strengthen the ties between our societies," President Lula stated, highlighting the importance of the new air link.
The direct service by Air Peace is anticipated to provide a more efficient and convenient travel option for business people, tourists, and students, bypassing long layovers and connecting flights through other continents.
This move aligns with President Tinubu's efforts to revitalize economic partnerships and attract foreign investment to Nigeria. The president noted that Brazil's Embraer has already been contributing to Nigeria’s aviation sector by establishing a service center to support local airlines.
The new flight route is a testament to the renewed diplomatic and economic focus on South-South cooperation, aiming to create stronger, more direct links between Africa and South America.
