By Emmanuel Obisue
As part of federal government efforts to establish a direct air connection between Nigeria and South America, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has embarked on a strategic working visit to Brazil.
Keyamo arrived in Brazil late Monday, accompanied by the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, and representatives of Nigerian airline operators.
According to Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister, the delegation is currently engaged in high-level discussions with Embraer, a globally recognized aircraft manufacturer and leasing firm, at its headquarters in São José dos Campos, São Paulo.
Embraer, a leader in regional aircraft production, is collaborating with the Nigerian team to explore ways of enhancing Nigeria’s aviation industry. The focus is on securing access to modern aircraft, favorable leasing arrangements, and partnerships with reputable financiers.
“We had extensive discussions with Embraer on how they can support our aviation sector through their vast network of lessors and financial institutions,” Moshood said, quoting the Minister. “The aim is to equip Nigerian airlines with the resources and partnerships needed for sustainable growth.”
The visit continues in Brasilia, where Minister Keyamo is scheduled to meet with Brazil’s Minister of Ports and Airports, Sílvio Costa Filho. A key item on the agenda is the review and amendment of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement, BASA, between Nigeria and Brazil, with the goal of launching direct flight services between the two countries.
This initiative is aimed at improving regional connectivity, boosting international trade, and strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and South America.
Nigeria Army raises alarm over influx of cattle into Plateau
Maj.-Gen. Folusho Oyinlola, the commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), has decried the influx of a large number of cattle into the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau.
Mr Oyinlola, who doubles as the general officer commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Rukuba, near Jos, made this known on Tuesday during an engagement with stakeholders in Barkin Ladi.
“There is a growing unease about the influx of a large number of cattle into farming communities.
“While the movement of livestock in Barkin Ladi and indeed Pateau in general is not unusual, the scale and timings of this new influx raise legitimate security concerns,” Mr Oyinlola said.
He noted that the influx of cattle was constituting a major security threat to the locality and the state in general.
According to him, the isolated attacks, farm destruction, and other illegal activities result from the unhealthy development.
“Unfortunately, this development has already resulted in adverse outcomes, including farm destruction, isolated attacks, and attacks on livestock.
“The impact of this action on food security, economic stability, and social harmony cannot be over-emphasised,” he said.
The commander, who also expressed deep concerns over the recent killings in the locality, called on the stakeholders to unite and fashion out ways to end the violence.
He, however, promised to fish out the perpetrators of the heinous crime, who would be made to face the full wrath of the law.
Mr Oyinlola explained that the stakeholders’ engagement aimed to ensure a successful and peaceful farming season in the locality.
“The farming season is already ongoing, and for many families, this is a period for securing their livelihood.
“Therefore, any disruption of farming activities now will have dire consequences for the rest of the year and beyond.
“To this end, this engagement is convened to hear from you, all stakeholders, to listen to your concerns,” he said.
The meeting had heads of security agencies, government officials, traditional and religious leaders in attendance.
