Direct flights: Nigeria, Brazil Seal game-changing deal

Nigeria and Brazil have signed a Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) that will open the skies for direct flights between both nations.

The landmark agreement was finalized on Monday, August 25, 2025, during President Bola Tinubu’s official state visit to Brasília, the capital of Brazil.

The ceremony was jointly overseen by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil and President Tinubu, accompanied by top-level government officials from both sides.


Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, signed the BASA on behalf of Nigeria, while Brazil’s Minister of Transport, Silvio Costa Filho, represented the South American nation.

The deal establishes a framework that will enable direct passenger and cargo flights between Lagos, Abuja, and major Brazilian cities such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

According to officials, the agreement is expected to boost trade, tourism, investment, cultural exchange, and diplomatic ties.

“This is more than just an aviation deal,” the statement released by Tinubu’s media aide emphasized.

“It is a gateway to new opportunities for Nigerians and Brazilians alike, cutting travel times, fostering trade partnerships, and strengthening the friendship between two major economies of the Global South.”


Direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil have long been a topic of discussion, but logistical and regulatory challenges stalled progress.

With the new BASA, travelers will no longer need to endure lengthy layovers in Europe or the Middle East to move between both countries.

For Nigeria, this agreement supports President Tinubu’s agenda to attract foreign investment and enhance regional and global connectivity.

For Brazil, it reflects President Lula’s renewed focus on expanding partnerships with Africa, especially in aviation, agriculture, infrastructure, and technology.

Brazilian President Lula da Silva praised the deal, saying:

“This is not just about aviation; it is about building bridges. Brazil and Nigeria share strong cultural and economic ties.

This direct flights agreement will bring our peoples closer and create opportunities in tourism, trade, and beyond.”



Nigeria and Brazil share deep historical links, rooted in centuries of Afro-Brazilian cultural exchanges.

Today, Brazil is home to the largest population of African descendants outside of Africa, with strong Yoruba cultural influence visible in music, religion, and festivals.

Tourism experts predict the direct flights will significantly increase travel between both nations, encouraging Nigerians to explore Brazil’s vibrant culture, beaches, and Carnival festivals, while Brazilians can more easily visit Lagos, Abuja, and other destinations in West Africa.

Economists also believe the flights will expand trade opportunities in oil, agriculture, textiles, and manufactured goods.

Nigeria’s agricultural sector, in particular, is expected to benefit from Brazil’s advanced technology in food production and mechanization.


President Tinubu traveled to Brazil with a high-powered delegation including Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy; Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; and Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security.

The Nigerian leader is also scheduled to meet with Brazil’s President of the Senate, President of the Chamber of Deputies, and President of the Supreme Federal Court.

These engagements aim to broaden collaboration beyond aviation, with discussions focusing on agriculture, infrastructure development, and energy partnerships.


The BASA marks a turning point in Nigeria’s aviation diplomacy.

Experts note that direct flights will not only benefit government-to-government relations but also strengthen private sector cooperation, foster student exchanges, and create new opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in both nations.

By eliminating barriers in air travel, Nigeria and Brazil are positioning themselves as key players in South-South cooperation, setting the stage for stronger alliances among emerging economies.

As the world watches, this landmark deal sends a powerful message: Africa and South America are ready to deepen ties, drive innovation, and create a shared future of prosperity.