Keyamo and Saudi Counterpart Convene in Riyadh for BASA Review Talks
Nigeria's Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has held a significant meeting with Saudi Arabia's Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, in Riyadh, the capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The primary objective of this high-level engagement was to discuss the enhancement and review of the existing Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between the two nations, with a particular focus on streamlining operations for the upcoming 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.
Comprehensive Discussions on Aviation Cooperation and Efficiency
In addition to the meeting with Minister Al-Jasser, Keyamo also conferred with Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia, addressing the same critical matters. According to a statement released yesterday by Tunde Moshood, the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the minister, these separate meetings aimed to ensure operational efficiency ahead of the 2026 Hajj operations. Keyamo was accompanied by Chris Najomo, the Director-General of the Civil Aviation (DGCA), along with key directors from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, underscoring the importance of the discussions.
The statement highlighted that the talks extended beyond technical aviation issues to include diplomatic matters, with both sides seeking to improve cooperation in the aviation sector. Moshood noted that the deliberations extensively covered the need to review the current BASA framework to align with present-day realities and the evolving dynamics of the global aviation industry. This review is intended to foster fairness, efficiency, and mutual benefit for both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
Focus on Hajj Operations and Airline Performance
A key aspect of the discussions involved examining the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2015, particularly regarding the sharing formula for the yearly airlift of pilgrims by designated airlines from both countries. The parties addressed the allocation of slots to Nigerian designated carriers, often referred to as flag carriers, for the 2026 Hajj operations. They also determined the percentage of pilgrims to be airlifted by airlines from Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, ensuring a balanced and equitable approach.
Operational concerns affecting Nigerian airlines were a focal point, with efforts directed at enhancing their performance and ensuring seamless Hajj operations this year. The meetings aimed to resolve any logistical or procedural hurdles that could impact the efficiency of the pilgrimage airlift. Moshood emphasized that decisions reached during these meetings, especially those pertaining to the 2026 Hajj operations, have already been communicated to Nigeria's designated airlines for prompt implementation, facilitating timely preparations and coordination.
This bilateral engagement marks a proactive step towards strengthening aviation ties between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, with potential long-term benefits for both countries' aviation sectors and the millions of pilgrims who undertake the Hajj journey annually.
