Air Peace has deepened its leadership position in West and Central Africa’s aviation industry with the historic arrival of a dry-leased Boeing 737-700 NG aircraft from AerCap – the largest aircraft leasing firm in the world.
The acquisition marks the first successful dry lease by a Nigerian carrier in almost ten years, an achievement widely interpreted as renewed global faith in Nigeria’s regulatory stability and aviation financial environment.
The aircraft was received during an elaborate ceremony at the Zulu Terminal Complex of Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos. The event drew senior government officials, regulators, financiers, foreign diplomats, and leading international aviation executives.
Among those present were the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN; Ambassador of Ireland to Nigeria, Peter Ryan; the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo; and the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku. Major financing partners from Fidelity Bank, including Executive Directors Kevin Ugwuoke and Dr Ken Opara, also attended.
Boeing’s Sales Director for Africa, Moore Ibekwe Jr, described the development as “a turning point moment for Nigeria,” praising the confidence demonstrated by AerCap and Boeing, and the coordination achieved with Nigeria’s aviation regulators.
He added that the successful transaction would bring positive economic outcomes, strengthen route expansion, and improve job creation within the sector.
AerCap’s Vice President of Leasing, Gad Wavomba, applauded Air Peace’s persistence during negotiations, saying the solid government support and NCAA-driven frameworks – including the 83Bis Agreement – helped unlock the deal. He also acknowledged the role of Irish aviation authorities in facilitating the international regulatory clearances.
Fidelity Bank reaffirmed its confidence in Air Peace’s vision for growth. Represented by Executive Director Kevin Ugwuoke, the bank described the dry lease as a major advancement from previous wet lease financing support, and one that would “reshape Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem and global perception.”
In his goodwill message, Avolta International’s Managing Director, John Hines, said airlines like Air Peace do not just transport passengers but “carry national aspirations, commerce, talent, and national identity.”
Ambassador Peter Ryan emphasised that the success of this transaction is evidence of a strong Nigeria–Ireland cooperation framework that directly benefits both nations.
Delivering his keynote address, Air Peace Chairman and founder, Dr Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, expressed deep gratitude to all who made the deal possible.
He particularly acknowledged the Minister of Aviation for driving policies that have restored trust, and reaffirmed the airline’s focus on maintaining strict global safety standards, strengthening national representation, promoting African connectivity, and boosting intra-African trade.
In his remarks, Minister Festus Keyamo described the arrival of the aircraft as a symbol of Nigeria’s aviation resurgence. He announced that government reforms – including the IDERA operational framework – are deliberately designed to safeguard investors, protect airline assets, and ensure transparency.
He further revealed that government is working toward establishing a Nigerian Aircraft Leasing Company and rebuilding the Lagos International Airport for a more modern travel hub.
He commended Air Peace for once again setting the pace for indigenous carriers, and stated that the Federal Government will continue to champion policies that ensure Nigerian airlines capture a greater share of both local and international markets.
With this new induction, Air Peace has again demonstrated resilience and innovation – enhancing its fleet strength, expanding operational possibilities, and reinforcing Nigeria’s aviation brand as a trusted and competitive force on the continental stage.
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