Nigeria’s flag carrier, Air Peace,
is in discussions with the Namibian government to establish direct
flights between Lagos, Nigeria, and Windhoek, Namibia’s capital. The
move is part of broader efforts to strengthen aviation ties between the
two nations and enhance seamless travel for passengers between West and
Southern Africa.
These discussions were revealed during a meeting between
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development,
Festus Keyamo, and Namibia’s Ambassador to
Nigeria, Humphrey Geiseb, in Abuja on
Wednesday. According to a statement by Tunde Moshood, Keyamo’s Special
Adviser on Media and Communications, the talks focused on air
connectivity and visa policies, with the Nigerian government urging
Namibia to introduce visa-on-arrival
options for Nigerian travelers.
Exploring Direct Air Connectivity
Ambassador Geiseb confirmed that Namibia is currently in talks
with Air Peace to establish direct flights between the two countries.
Although the precise stage of the discussions was not disclosed, Geiseb
emphasized Namibia’s willingness to partner with Nigerian airlines,
highlighting the importance of restoring air connectivity that had
diminished after the collapse of Namibia’s former national carrier, Air
Namibia.
“Air Namibia played a crucial role in connecting Lagos to Accra
and Windhoek during its operational years,” Geiseb said.
“Unfortunately, financial difficulties forced the airline to cease
operations after a government bailout, leaving a significant gap in air
travel between our countries.”
Presently, travelers between Nigeria and Namibia face
logistical challenges, often transiting through Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
While occasional flights via TAG Airlines exist, they are infrequent and
fail to meet the growing demand for direct connectivity between the two
nations.
Geiseb assured Keyamo of Namibia’s commitment to enhancing
cooperation, stating that he would engage his counterpart, Namibia’s
Minister of Aviation, to arrange a visit to explore further
collaboration opportunities. He also encouraged Keyamo to engage other
domestic Nigerian carriers to explore potential partnerships in
Namibia.
Aviation Collaboration and Bilateral Opportunities
Keyamo expressed his support for the initiative, sharing
insights from Nigeria’s success in fostering regional air connectivity.
He cited the example of the Algeria-Lagos-Cameroon routes, which were
launched following a proposal by the Algerian Ambassador. This, he
noted, demonstrated the potential for similar partnerships to succeed
between Nigeria and Namibia.
Keyamo also highlighted the role of Xejet, a Nigerian domestic
airline currently managing Sierra Leone’s national carrier, Air Sierra
Leone. He suggested Xejet as a potential partner for Namibia in
establishing direct air connectivity, given its experience in
cross-border aviation collaborations.
Additionally, both parties discussed the need to revise the
existing Bilateral Air Services Agreement
(BASA) between Nigeria and Namibia. Updating the
agreement could pave the way for enhanced cooperation, streamlined
operations, and eventual direct flights between the two nations,
boosting trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Addressing Visa Challenges
Beyond aviation, Keyamo raised concerns over visa restrictions
between Nigeria and Namibia, which he described as a significant
obstacle to travel and trade. He noted that even holders of diplomatic
passports often face difficulties obtaining Namibian visas. To resolve
this, Keyamo urged the Namibian government to consider easing visa
requirements, particularly by introducing a visa-on-arrival system for
Nigerian citizens.
“Facilitating smoother travel experiences will open doors for
greater trade and investment opportunities between our countries,”
Keyamo stressed. He pointed out that addressing visa challenges is an
essential step toward strengthening bilateral relations and making
travel more accessible for citizens of both nations.
Restoring Seamless Travel
The return of direct flights between Nigeria and Namibia would
mark a significant milestone in reconnecting the two regions. For
African travelers, especially those in the leisure, business, and trade
sectors, direct flights would eliminate the inconvenience of lengthy
layovers and transits, making travel more efficient and
cost-effective.
For travel agents, the potential route presents an opportunity
to promote Namibia as a key destination for Nigerian tourists. Home to
iconic attractions like the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, Etosha
National Park, and the Skeleton Coast, Namibia offers a wealth of
experiences for adventure and nature enthusiasts. Similarly, Nigerian
destinations such as Lagos, with its vibrant culture and business
opportunities, can attract Namibian travelers seeking new experiences
and collaborations.
Looking Ahead
The discussions between Air Peace and the Namibian government,
coupled with the call for visa reforms, signal a shared commitment to
improving connectivity and fostering stronger ties. Both nations stand
to benefit from enhanced aviation cooperation, with direct flights
serving as a catalyst for increased tourism, trade, and economic
growth.
As plans to restore direct flights progress, African travel
professionals can prepare to leverage these developments to create
seamless travel experiences for their clients. With Namibia’s growing
reputation as a premier destination and Nigeria’s position as a regional
economic hub, the proposed air connectivity could unlock new
opportunities and strengthen ties between West and Southern
Africa.
