In order to deepen U.S. bilateral relations, the Federal Government, on Wednesday, dropped the hint that it was collaborating with the United State of America on direct flights from Nigeria to Houston, USA.
The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace gave the assurance when it received request from a delegation from the US government for a direct flight from Nigeria to Houston, having a consulate office in Houston city.
The Permanent Secretary in the ministry Dr. Meribole, while receiving the Mayor of Houston, Texas, United States of America, Sylvester Turner and his delegates in his office, noted that the current administration 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 would commence as soon as new ministers are appointed and deployed appropriately.
Earlier, the Mayor of Houston Texas, Sylvester Turner, appreciated the hospitality they received from the government of Nigeria, saying their visit is to build a stronger tie on their existing relationship between the United States and Africa.
He pointed out that Houston is Africa’s second largest urban trade partner in the U.S. 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 their 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 would prioritize Houston Texas above others since they are the first to make such request.
