Nigeria, UK Begin Talks to Review Bilateral Air Services Agreement

The Federal Government of Nigeria and the United Kingdom have commenced discussions to review their Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) in line with evolving global aviation trends and the need for fair competition between airlines of both countries.

The development followed a courtesy visit to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, by a delegation of top British Airways executives led by Alan Campbell and Moran Birger. The meeting, held at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, focused on strengthening aviation ties, improving passenger experience, and addressing operational issues affecting carriers.

According to Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the minister, both parties acknowledged the need to modernise the existing agreement to reflect current realities in international air transport and support mutual growth in the sector.

Keyamo commended British Airways for its long-standing service in Nigeria and reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to creating a more conducive business environment for all operators.

British Airways, which has maintained operations in Nigeria for nearly 90 years, reaffirmed its commitment to the Nigerian market and disclosed plans to celebrate the milestone in 2026. Discussions also covered strategies to minimise disruptions to flight operations during ongoing upgrades at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

The talks come as part of broader efforts by the Nigerian government to enhance international air connectivity and strengthen local participation in global aviation. In recent months, Nigeria secured additional flight slots for Air Peace at London Heathrow Airport under the same bilateral framework, reflecting ongoing reforms aimed at achieving greater reciprocity in air service agreements.

While both sides have agreed in principle to amend the BASA, details of the revised framework are still under review and will be finalised in subsequent meetings. The move signals renewed collaboration between Nigeria and the UK to improve aviation standards, boost investment, and ensure a fair and competitive operating environment for all airlines.