Canadian flag carrier, Air Canada has concluded an expanded Air Transport Agreement between Canada and Nigeria with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. Air Canada stated that it “intends to launch scheduled service to Lagos in 2027 and is starting the process to obtaining the necessary government approvals to operate commercial flights to Nigeria.”
The Government of Canada said: “The expanded agreement allows for direct flights between Canada and Nigeria for the first time, improving connectivity while supporting Canada’s efforts to diversify trade and deepen commercial engagement with one of Africa’s largest economies.”
Vice President, Revenue Management, Partnerships, and International Affairs at Air Canada, Mary-Jane Lorette said: “We welcome this expanded Air Transport Agreement and look forward to obtaining the necessary government approvals to begin service to Lagos, Nigeria in the coming year.”
Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, The Honourable Steven MacKinnon, P.C., M.P., said: “By expanding our air transport agreements, we are creating new opportunities for Canadian airlines and giving travellers more choice. The newly expanded Canada-Nigeria Air Transport Agreement will strengthen our economic ties, support tourism and trade, and making it easier for people and businesses in both countries to connect.”
Minister of International Trade for the Government of Canada, The Honourable Maninder Sidhu, P.C. M.P., said: “This expanded agreement creates a direct link between Canada and Nigeria. It means more choice for travellers, stronger ties between our people, and new opportunities for businesses to expand trade in both directions. I have met many Canadians of Nigerian descent who have long called for greater connectivity between Canada and Nigeria, and I know more flight options will be welcome news. Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest economies. A direct connection to Lagos brings Canadian exporters closer to that market while also bringing families, communities, and partners closer together.”
A statement by the Special Adviser on Digital Media to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Olugbenga Saka revealed that “The Hon. Minister was represented at the signing ceremony by the Director of Air Transport Management, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Mohammed Ahmed Tijjani, who joined the Canadian Chief Air Negotiator for Global Affairs, Ms. Shendra Melia, at the High Commission of Canada in Abuja to formalize the historic agreement.”
According to Mr. Saka, the highlights of the agreement include:
- Each country can designate multiple airlines
- 14 weekly passenger flights allowed per side
- 10 weekly all-cargo flights allowed per side
- Fifth freedom rights granted for cargo operations
Air Canada noted that “details including schedules and aircraft will be announced in due course and remains subject to receipt of government approval and completion of applicable processes to operate in Nigeria.”
