Nigeria and Tanzania are set to strengthen bilateral ties with the planned launch of direct flights between the two countries.

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, met with the Head of Chancery of the Tanzania High Commission, Judica Nagunwa, to strengthen both countries’ bilateral relations.

In a statement on Sunday, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Keyamo, Tunde Moshood, revealed that Nagunwa led a delegation to Keyamo’s office in Abuja.

According to the statement, the delegation held discussions on Air Tanzania’s request to begin direct flights between the East African nation and Nigeria.

“During the meeting, the Tanzanian envoy conveyed the High Commission’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Tanzania, particularly in the area of air connectivity,” Moshood said.

“A key point of discussion was the request by Air Tanzania to commence direct flights between Tanzania and Nigeria.

“Mrs. Nagunwa emphasised that the launch of direct flights would not only enhance trade and tourism between both countries but would also deepen cultural and people-to-people ties.

She expressed the readiness of the Tanzanian authorities to collaborate closely with Nigeria to actualise this goal.

Keyamo expressed support for the proposal to launch direct flights, assuring the delegation that the ministry would facilitate the required processes in accordance with Nigeria’s bilateral agreements and regulatory standards.

“He reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to expand Nigeria’s aviation frontiers and promote stronger air transport linkages across Africa,” the special adviser said.

Moshood noted that both sides concluded the meeting with a shared commitment to ongoing engagement, aimed at expediting approvals and finalising operational plans.