The Federal Government has said it would partner with the United States of America ( USA) following their request for a direct flight from Nigeria to Houston, Texas.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace, Dr Emmanuel Meribole, made this known in Abuja, according to a statement on Tuesday night by the Head, Press and Public Affairs, Odutayo Oluseyi.
Meribole while receiving the Mayor of Houston Texas, Mr. Sylvester Turner, and his delegates said the partnership would deepen bilateral relations between both countries.
The permanent secretary said he was glad that the present administration is well disposed to investment, tourism, and building on the existing bilateral relationship.
He assured them that all modalities required for the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between the Nations as regards direct flight to Houston Texas will commence as soon as new Ministers are appointed and deployed appropriately.
Earlier, the Mayor of Houston Texas, Mr. Sylvester Turner appreciated the hospitality they received from the Government of Nigeria stating that their visit to the Government of Nigeria is to build a stronger tie on their existing relationship between the United States and Africa.
He reiterated that Houston is Africa’s second-largest urban trade partner in the US and home to one of the largest Nigerian diasporas in the country, hence the need for a direct flight there.
He stated further that Houston is a gateway for trade to central and the western United States with strong infrastructure and strategic geographic location and that the visit is to further complement Houston’s efforts to expand its relationship with Nigeria through Healthcare, technology, Agriculture, energy, and education.
Commenting, Ambassador Akinyemi Bolaji of Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, assured the Mayor, that the issue of a consulate office in Houston will be considered. He said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will prioritize Houston Texas above others since they are the first to make such a request.
Director, Admin and Strategy of the Organization of Youth in International Trade and Commerce, Engr. Gambo, Director General/Chief Executive Office, Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau, Engr. Akin Olateru, Chairperson/ C.E.O of Nigeria in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri Erewa among many other dignitaries were present at the event.
