Nigeria and Jamaica are in talks to establish a direct flight route, strengthening their Bilateral Air Service Agreement. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo and Jamaican Ambassador Lincoln Downer discussed the growing cultural ties and travel demand. The move aims to boost tourism, trade, and connectivity between both nations.
Nigeria and Jamaica are moving toward establishing a direct flight route as part of efforts to strengthen the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA).
This was revealed in a statement by Tunde Moshood, the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, on Wednesday.
The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, hosted the Jamaican Ambassador to Nigeria, Lincoln Downer, and his Consular, Andre Hibbert, in Abuja to discuss the proposal.
Ambassador Downer highlighted the growing cultural and economic ties between both nations, citing Nigeria’s influence in Jamaica through Afrobeats and Nollywood. He emphasized that increased air connectivity would further enhance diplomatic relations and facilitate trade.
“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 stated.
Keyamo welcomed the proposal and promised swift action, announcing plans to set up a committee to fast-track the agreement. He also expressed his willingness to travel to Jamaica to finalize the BASA deal.
The discussions also touched on Jamaica’s lack of a national airline, with the ambassador suggesting collaboration with Trinidad and Tobago’s carrier to bridge the gap.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians, with some questioning the demand for such a route and others expressing amusement. Some wondered how many Nigerians travel to Jamaica, while others joked about the in-flight entertainment being exciting. A few pointed out that Afrobeats stars like Burna Boy and Odumodublvck might benefit the most, while others humorously referenced Jamaica’s reputation for cannabis culture.
