Nigeria Calls for Reinstatement of Bilateral Air Services with Italy
The Federal Government of Nigeria has formally requested the reinstatement of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with Italy to restore direct air connectivity and strengthen trade ties between both countries.
The call was made during the Nigeria-Italy Investment Summit 2025 (NIIS 2025), held on Wednesday in Abuja, with the theme: “Building Bridges: Unlocking Opportunities.”
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Urges Revival of Direct Flights
Anderson Madubuike, Director of Economic Trade and Investment at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that the absence of direct flights due to Alitalia’s suspension of operations in Nigeria has significantly impacted passengers and bilateral commerce.
Speaking through Deputy Director Eucharia Eze, Madubuike stated:
“Since Alitalia ceased operations, it has become difficult for passengers to travel directly between our countries.”
He stressed that reinstating BASA would enhance economic transformation, increase trade flows, and support mutual investment goals.
Renewed BASA Seen as a Gateway to Economic Growth
Longstanding Economic Ties Between Nigeria and Italy
Madubuike highlighted that Italy remains a vital trade partner for Nigeria. He noted that both nations are seeking to diversify their economies and attract more foreign direct investment (FDI) across sectors such as agriculture, technology, and infrastructure.
“The BASA agreement has the potential to unlock unrealized economic opportunities,” he added.
Travel Disruptions Undermining Business and Investment
Loss of Direct Flights Extends Travel Times
Augustine Chigbolu, Managing Director of Giant Gee Nigeria Limited co-organizers of NIIS 2025 emphasized how the absence of direct flights has disrupted travel and commerce.
He pointed out that what used to be a five-hour direct flight between Nigeria and Italy now takes 16 to 18 hours due to layovers, creating unnecessary burdens for travelers and business executives.
“Restoring an Italian airline service is crucial for seamless movement and economic activity,” Chigbolu said.
Italian Stakeholders Welcome Prospects of Renewed Air Links
Alitalia’s Return Could Spark Investment in Key Sectors
Roberto Bocca, an Italian entrepreneur, projected that reviving direct air travel would boost trade and investment particularly in aviation, energy, and infrastructure sectors.
He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential as a strategic African market for Italian businesses and affirmed Italy’s commitment to increasing its investments across the continent.
Looking Ahead: Unlocking Nigeria-Italy Economic Potential
Stakeholders at the summit expressed optimism that reviving BASA would not only resolve travel inefficiencies but also serve as a catalyst for long-term bilateral cooperation, job creation, and sustainable development.
The summit was jointly organized by Giant Gee Nigeria Limited, the Italian Embassy in Abuja, and the Nigerian Embassy in Rome.
