Trinidad and Tobago, Nigeria Sign Bilateral Air Service Agreement
BASA enhances direct connectivity between Trinidad and Tobago, Nigeria, and the wider African continent.
On 14 April 2025, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and the Federal Republic of Nigeria formalised a Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA), establishing direct flights between the two nations for the first time.
The agreement was signed by Hon. Rohan Sinanan, Minister of Works and Transport, Trinidad and Tobago, and Hon. Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Nigeria.
Eliminating Transit Hurdles, Strengthening Trade and Connectivity
The agreement eliminates the need for travellers between Trinidad and Tobago and Africa to transit via third-country hubs such as the United States or the United Kingdom—a journey that could take up to two days, as noted by Anthony Vieira, SC, Chairman of the Standing Negotiating Committee on Air Services Agreement, who stated, “Today, we correct that.”
The BASA is expected to drive increased tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the two nations.
Minister Amery Browne, Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, underscored the broader impact, stating, “This will facilitate enhanced access for Trinidad and Tobago, not just to Nigeria but also to West Africa and the wider African continent.”
Additionally, the agreement aligns with Trinidad and Tobago’s aviation sector expansion, which includes airport infrastructure upgrades and initiatives such as Aero Park development, aimed at creating new aviation opportunities.