Nigeria’s Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo Engages Embraer in Brazil to Advance Direct Flights to South America

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has embarked on a strategic mission to Brazil to advance Nigeria’s aviation sector and fulfill President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to establish a direct air route between Nigeria and South America.

Touching down in Brazil late on Monday, Keyamo was joined by the Director General of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, and representatives from Nigerian airlines. The delegation’s core focus was a high-level meeting with Embraer, a leading manufacturer and lessor of regional aircraft, at its São José dos Campos headquarters.

The discussions centered on strengthening Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure by improving access to modern aircraft and securing favorable leasing arrangements through Embraer’s extensive network of financiers. Keyamo’s team aims to leverage these partnerships to enhance the capacity and competitiveness of Nigerian carriers.

Continuing the visit in Brasilia, the Minister is set to meet with Brazil’s Minister of Ports and Airports, Sílvio Costa Filho, to review the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA). The goal is to revise the agreement to enable the prompt start of direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil.

This historic step is part of the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Tinubu to foster greater regional integration, boost trade, and deepen diplomatic relations with South America.

Moshood, speaking on behalf of Keyamo, stated, “We had extensive discussions with Embraer on how they can support our aviation sector with their vast network of lessors and financial institutions. The goal is to empower Nigerian operators with the tools and partnerships necessary for growth and expansion.”