Nigeria and Canada have signed an expanded Air Transport Agreement that will allow scheduled direct flights between both countries for the first time, opening a new route for travel, trade and business.

The agreement was signed in Abuja by officials from both countries and represents the first major expansion of the bilateral air services framework since it was negotiated in 2014.

New Passenger and Cargo Routes

Under the agreement, multiple designated airlines from each country can operate up to 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly cargo flights.

The deal also grants Fifth Freedom Traffic Rights for all-cargo operations, allowing eligible airlines to carry traffic between a second country and Nigeria or Canada as part of permitted international routes.

Agreement to Boost Travel and Trade

The new framework is expected to improve air connectivity while supporting trade, tourism, business travel and investment between Nigeria and Canada.

It is also expected to facilitate educational exchanges and strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.

The agreement is particularly significant for Nigeria given the large number of Nigerians living, studying and working in Canada. More than 25,000 Nigerians currently hold valid Canadian study permits.

Framework Gets Major Expansion

The agreement builds on the existing Nigeria-Canada air transport relationship and provides a broader framework for airlines to establish direct services.

The implementation of the new arrangements is expected to give airlines greater flexibility while improving travel options for passengers and businesses moving between the two countries.