Namibia’s Bold Move: Direct Flights to Nigeria in the Works

Namibia’s Bold Move: Direct Flights to Nigeria in the Works

In a significant development, Namibia is actively pursuing direct flights to Nigeria and is keen to collaborate with local airlines to bring this vision to life.

During a recent meeting in Abuja, according to THE WILL NEWS, Namibia’s ambassador to Nigeria, Humphrey Geiseb, discussed this initiative with Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo. The talks centered on the bilateral air services agreement (BASA) between the two nations and strategies to enhance aviation connectivity.

Ambassador Geiseb recalled the pivotal role Air Namibia once played in connecting Lagos to Accra, facilitating travel between Namibia and Nigeria. Unfortunately, financial challenges led to the airline’s cessation, leaving a void in direct connectivity. Currently, travelers must transit through Addis Ababa, making journeys longer and less convenient.

To address this, Namibia is exploring partnerships with Nigerian carriers, notably Air Peace. Ambassador Geiseb expressed his country’s desire to partner with Nigerian airlines to restore direct connectivity, citing ongoing discussions with Air Peace. He also encouraged Minister Keyamo to engage with domestic airlines to explore potential collaboration opportunities.

Minister Keyamo welcomed these initiatives, sharing insights from his experience. He highlighted the successful Algeria-Lagos-Cameroon route, initiated after the Algerian Ambassador proposed a direct connection, despite the close proximity between Nigeria and Cameroon. This example underscores the potential benefits of direct flights in fostering regional integration and economic growth.

Additionally, Minister Keyamo identified Xejet, a rising Nigerian domestic carrier currently operating Sierra Leone’s national airline, Air Sierra Leone, as a potential partner in this venture. Such collaborations could pave the way for enhanced connectivity between Nigeria and Namibia.

Beyond aviation, Minister Keyamo addressed visa challenges hindering smoother travel and stronger bilateral relations. He recounted his recent difficulties obtaining a Namibian visa, even with a diplomatic passport, and urged the ambassador to work towards resolving these issues.

In response, Ambassador Geiseb assured that he would engage Namibia’s Minister of Aviation to arrange a possible visit, aiming to strengthen aviation cooperation between both countries. This commitment signifies a mutual desire to bolster ties and explore new opportunities in aviation and economic collaboration.

The pursuit of direct flights between Namibia and Nigeria marks a significant step towards enhancing connectivity, fostering economic growth, and strengthening bilateral relations. As discussions progress, travelers and businesses alike can anticipate more efficient and direct links between the two nations.