From Sola Ojo, Abuja
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, on Thursday, received the Angolan Ambassador to Nigeria, José Bamoquina Zau, and his deputy, Nelson Paulo Kafikiri, in his office in Abuja and discussed aviation development ties between the two countries.
The Special Adviser to the Minister on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood, in a statement, said the Angolan delegation brought positive updates on the progress of Angola’s aviation sector, highlighting the recent overhaul of its airport infrastructure.
“Ambassador Zau informed the Honourable Minister that the new airport, set to serve as a strategic hub for the region, will be officially inaugurated in one month.
“In delivering a message from the Angolan Minister of Transport, Ricardo de Abreu, the Ambassador conveyed the Minister’s warm greetings and underscored Angola’s eagerness to foster collaboration with Nigeria.
“The Angolan side expressed interest in exploring a bilateral air services agreement and other mutually beneficial opportunities within the aviation sector.
“Ambassador Zau also extended an official invitation from Minister Ricardo de Abreu for Minister Keyamo to attend the grand opening of Angola’s new airport next month”.
Responding, Keyamo expressed appreciation for the visit and congratulated the Angolan government on its impressive strides in aviation infrastructure, affirming his commitment to attend the upcoming event and signaling Nigeria’s readiness to work closely with Angola to enhance air connectivity and explore new business opportunities.
“To ensure seamless coordination ahead of the event, the Aviation Minister has constituted a technical committee to work with the Angolan Embassy’s team. The committee will oversee logistics and help solidify plans for the Minister’s visit and potential areas of collaboration.
“The meeting underscores the continued commitment of both nations to expand their aviation sectors and work towards a prosperous and mutually beneficial relationship”, he explained.