The imperative to revive the bilateral air services agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Italy has taken center stage, driven by the urgent need to restore direct flight operations and bolster trade and economic ties. The absence of direct flights, particularly since the cessation of Alitalia’s operations in Nigeria, has created significant travel challenges, forcing passengers to endure lengthy layovers and extended travel times. The resumption of direct air connectivity is viewed as a crucial catalyst for enhancing economic cooperation, facilitating seamless movement of people and goods, and unlocking untapped potential in various sectors. The call for a renewed BASA underscores the recognition of the mutual benefits that would accrue to both nations through improved air travel, including increased trade, investment, and tourism.
The disruption caused by the absence of direct flights between Nigeria and Italy has had a palpable impact on travelers. What was once a convenient five-hour journey has become a protracted 16 to 18-hour ordeal, riddled with the inconveniences of multiple layovers and transit through other countries. This extended travel time not only poses logistical challenges but also adds to the cost and fatigue of travel, deterring potential visitors and hindering business interactions. Reinstating direct flights would effectively address these issues, making travel between the two nations more efficient, affordable, and attractive, thereby fostering greater people-to-people exchange and boosting economic activities.
Nigeria and Italy share a longstanding relationship marked by collaboration in various sectors, including trade, investment, agriculture, and technological development. Italy represents a significant trading partner for Nigeria, and both countries are actively seeking to diversify their economies and attract foreign direct investment. The revival of BASA is seen as a strategic move that would significantly enhance bilateral trade, enabling businesses to operate more efficiently and access new markets. The improved connectivity would also facilitate the transfer of technology and expertise, promoting economic growth and development in both countries.
The Nigeria-Italy Investment Summit 2025 (NIIS 2025), themed “Building Bridges: Unlocking Opportunities,” served as a platform to advocate for the restoration of direct flights and explore avenues for deeper economic cooperation. The summit brought together government officials, business leaders, and entrepreneurs from both countries, providing an opportunity to discuss the mutual benefits of a renewed BASA and identify specific areas for investment and collaboration. The discussions highlighted the potential for growth in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and aviation, emphasizing the strategic importance of strengthening the partnership between Nigeria and Italy.
The summit participants emphasized the significant role of air connectivity in driving economic growth and fostering closer ties between nations. The absence of direct flights was identified as a major impediment to trade and investment, highlighting the urgent need for a renewed BASA. The summit also showcased the opportunities for Italian businesses to invest in Nigeria, recognizing the country’s vast market potential and its strategic location in Africa. The discussions underscored the shared commitment to fostering sustainable growth and creating meaningful partnerships that would benefit both countries.
The call for a renewed BASA between Nigeria and Italy signifies a concerted effort to overcome the challenges posed by the lack of direct air connectivity. The restoration of direct flights is viewed as a crucial step towards strengthening economic ties, promoting trade and investment, and facilitating greater cultural exchange. The discussions at the NIIS 2025 summit underscored the mutual benefits that would accrue to both nations through improved air travel, highlighting the strategic importance of restoring direct flights as a catalyst for economic growth and development. The anticipated resumption of direct flights is expected to not only alleviate travel challenges but also unlock a wealth of opportunities for businesses, investors, and travelers alike, forging closer ties between Nigeria and Italy and fostering sustainable growth.
