Nigeria and Canada have signed a code-sharing agreement aimed at improving efficiency and connectivity in the aviation sector.
Gbenga Saka, Special Adviser on Digital Media to Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the agreement on Friday via his X page.
Code-sharing allows airlines from both countries to sell seats on each other’s flights, providing passengers with more travel options and smoother connections.
Advancing Bilateral Aviation Ties
During the signing ceremony, Keyamo emphasized the significance of the agreement, stating that while it is not a full Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA), it represents a major step in strengthening aeronautical relations between Nigeria and Canada.
“Today, we take another step forward in our relationship by signing this important agreement,” Keyamo said.
He also noted that several Nigerian airlines have already been granted approval to operate flights under the code-sharing framework, and they can now leverage this agreement to commence operations.
Strengthening Commercial and Travel Relations
Pasquale Salvaggio, Canada’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, described the agreement as a reflection of the strong people-to-people ties and growing commercial relations between the two nations.
“Code-sharing allows airlines to place their designator codes on flights operated by another airline, making the booking and travel process more seamless for passengers,” Salvaggio explained.
Next Steps in Aviation Collaboration
The agreement follows discussions held on July 23, 2024, where both countries explored the possibility of establishing direct flights and fostering business partnerships in the aviation industry.
With this new agreement in place, airlines from Nigeria and Canada are expected to enhance travel options, improve connectivity, and strengthen economic cooperation between the two nations.
