United Nigeria Airlines has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau to establish a new national airline, Air Bissau, marking a significant step toward strengthening the country’s aviation sector and global connectivity.
The agreement was formalised in Bissau, the nation’s capital, with Dr. Florentino Mendes Pereira, Minister of Transport, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, signing on behalf of Guinea-Bissau, while Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, represented the Nigerian carrier.
Described by both parties as a transformative partnership, the initiative aims to position Guinea-Bissau as a more connected player within Africa and the broader international aviation network. For decades, the West African nation has depended heavily on regional airlines and charter services. This new venture is expected to reverse that trend by establishing a fully operational national carrier.
Under the terms of the MoU, both parties will collaborate on a comprehensive framework to bring Air Bissau to life, with the Osvaldo Vieira International Airport in Bissau designated as the airline’s primary operational hub.
The agreement also предусматриes the creation of a joint venture entity that will serve as Guinea-Bissau’s official national airline. United Nigeria Airlines will provide majority investment, technical expertise, aircraft, and operational management. Additionally, the airline will supply and operate an executive jet for the use of the President and the government of Guinea-Bissau.
In return, the Government of Guinea-Bissau has committed to facilitating the swift registration and licensing of the airline in accordance with national regulations, while coordinating approvals through both its Civil Aviation Authority and that of Nigeria. The government will also designate Air Bissau as the country’s official carrier, granting it full access to Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) rights—an advantage that will enable the airline to secure valuable regional and international route opportunities.
To support operations, the government has pledged to enhance infrastructure at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport, including ground handling services, customs and immigration facilitation, and security compliance. It will also invest in the establishment of the airline and provide incentives under existing investment and tax frameworks.
As part of its commitments, United Nigeria Airlines will prioritise the training and employment of qualified Guinean nationals, including pilots, cabin crew, and maintenance personnel, aligning with local workforce development goals.
The MoU further stipulates that overall operational control and management of the airline will rest with United Nigeria Airlines to ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability. Both parties have also agreed to key safeguards, including comprehensive insurance coverage, annual independent safety audits, and asset protection measures to secure investments against regulatory or policy risks.
The agreement takes immediate effect and will remain valid for 18 months or until a definitive joint venture agreement is finalised.