FG seeks return of direct flights between Nigeria, Italy

The federal government has called for the reinstatement of the bilateral air services agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Italy to enhance direct flights and bilateral trade.

Anderson Madubuike, director of economic trade and investment at the ministry of foreign affairs, called for the reinstatement at the Nigeria-Italy Investment Summit 2025 (NIIS 2025) in Abuja on Wednesday.

The summit, organised by Giant Gee Nigeria Limited in collaboration with the Italian embassy in Abuja and the Nigerian embassy in Rome, is themed ‘Building Bridges: Unlocking Opportunities’.

Madubuike, represented by Eucharia Eze, deputy director at the ministry, highlighted the challenges passengers face due to the suspension of Alitalia’s operations in Nigeria, which had disrupted direct travel between Nigeria and Italy.

“Since Alitalia ceased operations, it has become difficult for passengers to travel directly between our countries,” he said.

The director explained that a renewed BASA would contribute to the economic transformation of both nations.

He said Nigeria and Italy shared longstanding relations in sectors such as trade, investment, agriculture, and technological development, and that the BASA agreement could unlock untapped economic potential.

“Italy is a significant trading partner for Nigeria. Both countries aim to diversify their economies and attract foreign direct investment,” Madubuike said.

“I believe this summit will help foster impactful partnerships.”

Augustine Chigbolu, managing director of Giant Gee Nigeria Limited, emphasised the importance of reinstating an Italian airline service to alleviate travel challenges between the two nations.

Chigbolu said the summit is a dynamic platform to promote sustainable growth and meaningful partnerships between the two countries, highlighting that travel between Nigeria and Italy now takes 16 to 18 hours due to layovers, compared to the previous five-hour direct flight.

Roberto Bocca, an Italian entrepreneur, said the revival of Alitalia flights would strengthen trade and investment opportunities, particularly in sectors like energy, infrastructure, and aviation.

Bocca further highlighted Italy’s ongoing investments in Africa, while stating his hope that Nigeria would become a primary market for Italian businesses.