Namibian Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Humphrey Geiseb, has urged the Nigerian government to collaborate on restoring direct aviation connectivity between the two nations, citing the significant impact it would have on trade and travel.
During a courtesy visit to Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in Abuja, Geiseb highlighted the need to revitalize the existing Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA).
He recalled the historical role of Air Namibia, which previously operated flights connecting Lagos, Accra, and Windhoek, before its cessation due to financial constraints.
According to him, currently, direct travel between Windhoek and Nigeria is challenging, requiring lengthy transits through Addis Ababa noting the limited frequency of flights offered by TAG Airlines.
He expressed Namibia’s keen interest in partnering with Nigerian airlines, revealing ongoing discussions with Air Peace and urging Mr. Keyamo to explore further collaboration with other domestic carriers.
Geiseb pledged to facilitate a visit by Namibia’s Minister of Aviation to Nigeria to solidify cooperation.
In response, Keyamo expressed his support, sharing his own experiences regarding the complexities of establishing direct flight routes in the region.
He cited the successful Algeria/Lagos/Cameroon route as an example of what can be achieved through diplomatic initiatives.
Keyamo also suggested Xejet, a Nigerian carrier currently operating Air Sierra Leone, as a potential partner for the proposed venture.
However, Keyamo raised a critical issue regarding visa challenges between the two countries, recounting his own recent difficulties obtaining a Namibian visa despite holding a diplomatic passport.
The minister emphasized the need for both nations to streamline visa processes to facilitate smoother travel, trade, and investment.
