By Joke Kujenya
THE U.S. Mission in Nigeria has announced the formalization of a modern civil aviation agreement between the United States and Nigeria. This announcement, made in Abuja on Friday by the Public Diplomacy Department, highlights a relationship that has been provisionally active since 2000.
This bilateral agreement aligns with the U.S. Open Skies international aviation policy, emphasizing high standards of aviation safety and security. The mission described the agreement as a significant step in liberalizing the international civil aviation sector in Africa, further enhancing the strong economic and commercial ties between the two nations.
Key provisions of the agreement include unrestricted capacity and frequency of services, open route rights, a liberal charter regime, and extensive code-sharing opportunities. These measures aim to provide more affordable, convenient, and efficient air services, promoting tourism and commerce by creating new opportunities for airlines, travel companies, and customers.
Earlier this year, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell met with Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar. During their discussions in April, and a subsequent meeting on May 14 in Washington, they reiterated their commitment to a vibrant partnership focused on mutual economic, governance, and security priorities. Their engagements followed a successful U.S.-Nigeria Bi-national Commission meeting held in Abuja.
During his visit to Nigeria, Campbell co-chaired the sixth U.S.-Nigeria Bi-national Commission with Tuggar. He also engaged with senior government officials, business leaders, and civil society representatives, discussing partnerships for shared prosperity, democracy, governance, accountability, and the movement of people, among other topics.
