Air Peace announced that travelers can save up to ₦600,000 on airfares when flying from various Nigerian cities to London, with an extra luggage allowance. In a statement on Wednesday, the airline’s Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, stated that the promo runs until March 31, 2025, with an extended travel period until April 15, 2025. The airline emphasized its commitment to redefining international travel through its London route, ensuring smooth connectivity from major domestic locations. The statement reads partly, “As the largest airline in West and Central Africa, Air Peace remains steadfast in its vision of fostering prosperity through reliable air travel, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a key player in global aviation. “With its expanding domestic and international routes, the airline is making it easier for people to explore new opportunities and for businesses to thrive in an interconnected world.” Ndiulo said the Chairman of the airline, Allen Onyenma, had made the announcement at the Silverbird Man of the Year 2024 Awards held recently in Lagos.

Nigeria and Jamaica are exploring the possibility of a direct flight route as part of efforts to strengthen their Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA). This was disclosed in a statement by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, on Wednesday. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo hosted Jamaican Ambassador to Nigeria, Lincoln Downer, and his Consular, Andre Hibbert, in Abuja to discuss the initiative. Downer emphasized the potential for mutually beneficial diplomatic engagements and the need to enhance bilateral relations, including reviewing the existing BASA. “My country has tasked me with reviewing and improving diplomatic engagements between Jamaica and Nigeria, particularly in air services,” Downer stated. He also highlighted Jamaica’s growing interest in Nigerian culture, including Afrobeat music and Nollywood films, reinforcing the need for stronger diplomatic and air connectivity. “There is no reason why we should not have a direct flight between our countries. Nigerians love Jamaica, and there is a rising demand for Jamaican spices in Nigeria,” Downer added. Keyamo in his response, welcomed the ambassador’s proposals and expressed his eagerness to take the next steps. “I am delighted to start the BASA arrangements. To ensure a swift resolution, we will set up a committee to expedite the process,” said Keyamo. He further committed to visiting Jamaica if necessary, stating that he would be willing to travel to Jamaica to finalize and sign the BASA agreement in person. It was noted that Downer disclosed that Jamaica currently lacks a national carrier, relying on neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago for air transport.

Canada has announced plans to process up to 10,000 complete visa applications under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) in 2025. The program enables Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency. To qualify, sponsors must be at least 18 years old, meet the required income threshold, and commit to financially supporting their sponsored family members. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) manages the program, which promotes family reunification. Super Visa: A Flexible Alternative for Extended Visits For those seeking extended stays without permanent residency, the Super Visa remains a viable option. It allows multiple entries over 10 years, with each visit lasting up to five years. Recent IRCC changes have made the Super Visa more accessible by updating health insurance requirements. Applicants must apply from outside Canada, meet temporary residence conditions, and provide proof of valid health insurance from an approved provider. If coverage expires before departure, visa holders may need to renew their policy to maintain eligibility. Processing Times and Provincial Differences As of February 5, 2025, PGP applications take about 24 months to process for those outside Quebec. However, due to Quebec’s specific family class admission targets, processing times for applicants settling in the province are estimated at 48 months. Super Visa applicants must secure private health insurance, as they are not eligible for provincial or territorial healthcare plans. While proof of insurance was previously limited to Canadian providers, IRCC now allows applicants to obtain coverage from international insurers. For shorter visits of six months or less, a standard visitor visa remains an alternative.