The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has stated that Namibia is looking to establish direct flights to Nigeria and is open to partnering with local airlines to make this a reality.

In a statement on Wednesday, Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation, revealed that the discussion arose during a meeting between Keyamo and Humphrey Geiseb, Namibia’s Ambassador to Nigeria, in Abuja.

Moshood stated that the meeting focused on the bilateral air services agreement (BASA) between the two countries and exploring ways to improve aviation connectivity.

“Ambassador Geiseb emphasized the historical significance of Air Namibia’s operations between the two countries, noting that the national carrier previously connected Lagos to Accra and played a crucial role in facilitating travel between Namibia and Nigeria,” Moshood said.

“Unfortunately, Air Namibia encountered financial challenges and was ultimately compelled to cease operations after receiving a government bailout.

“Geiseb pointed out that it is still difficult to establish a direct connection between Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, and Nigeria, with travelers having to transit through Addis Ababa.

“Although there are occasional flights via TAG Airlines, they are not frequent enough to accommodate the demand for smooth travel between the two countries.” “The Ambassador conveyed his country’s interest in partnering with Nigerian airlines to re-establish direct connectivity, mentioning ongoing discussions with Air Peace.

“However, he urged Minister Keyamo to engage with local airlines to explore potential collaboration opportunities.”

According to Moshood, the minister expressed his support and shared a personal experience about the challenges of establishing direct flights in the region.

“He referred to the successful Algeria/Lagos/Cameroon flight route, which was launched after the Algerian Ambassador proposed a direct connection, despite the close proximity between Nigeria and Cameroon,” he said.

“The Minister also mentioned that one of Nigeria’s rapidly growing domestic carriers, Xejet, which currently operates Sierra Leone’s national carrier, Air Sierra Leone, could be a potential partner for this initiative.

“Ambassador Geiseb assured the Minister that he would consult with Namibia’s Minister of Aviation to arrange a possible visit to further enhance aviation cooperation between the two countries.”

KEYAMO CALLS FOR EASIER VISA ACCESS TO BOOST TRADE

Additionally, Moshood stated that Keyamo addressed the visa challenges between Nigeria and Namibia, recalling his recent difficulties in obtaining a visa despite holding a diplomatic passport. “He urged the Ambassador to address these issues to ensure smoother travel and create opportunities for increased trade and investment between the two countries.”

Moshood further stated that the visit symbolized Nigeria and Namibia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new opportunities in aviation and economic cooperation.