Air Peace Limited and its Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Dr Allen Onyema, have recorded a landmark double triumph at the inaugural Nigeria International Air Show, held from 2nd to 4th December 2025 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The airline was named “Airline of the Year”, while Dr Onyema received the distinguished “Aviation Executive of the Year” award, solidifying their leadership in the nation’s rapidly evolving aviation sector.
The awards were presented by the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Yakubu Adam Kofamata.
Both presentations highlighted a decade-long journey defined by bold ambition, strategic investment, and unwavering commitment to expanding Nigeria’s global aviation relevance.
Air Peace, founded in 2014, has consistently distinguished itself through aggressive expansion, operational resilience, and a forward-looking fleet strategy. From operating Dornier 328s and Boeing 737s in its early days, the airline now commands one of the most modern and diverse fleets on the continent – including Boeing 777 wide-body aircraft and next-generation Embraer 195-E2 jets.
This deliberate fleet modernisation reflects a clear vision to enhance efficiency, safety, and international competitiveness.
One of the airline’s most celebrated milestones is its breakthrough in the United Kingdom market. In 2024, Air Peace launched the Lagos–London Gatwick route, which quickly became a symbol of Nigeria’s renewed aviation ambition.
Building on that success, the carrier made history again in late 2025 by introducing the first-ever direct Abuja–London Heathrow service operated by a Nigerian airline. The feat was widely praised as a strategic win for the nation, boosting its global visibility and strengthening its position in long-haul aviation.
These achievements were cited as key reasons behind the airline’s emergence as “Airline of the Year”. Organisers of the air show described Air Peace as “a catalyst for regional growth and a dominant force reshaping connectivity across Africa”.
Dr Onyema’s recognition as “Aviation Executive of the Year” mirrored the larger story of Air Peace’s ascent. His leadership has been defined by an unshakeable belief in Nigeria’s potential to compete with global carriers and a deep commitment to national development.
Beyond building a successful airline, he has championed job creation, fostering opportunities for thousands of Nigerians and nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals.
Stakeholders at the air show praised Onyema for his “courageous leadership and uncompromising dedication to the advancement of Nigerian aviation”.
They emphasised that his efforts have repositioned the country within the global aviation ecosystem, proving that Nigerian airlines can excel not only in domestic and regional markets but also on prestigious intercontinental routes.
The double awards signified a major high point at the maiden Nigeria International Air Show, an event designed to showcase innovation, inspire investment, and celebrate excellence in the aviation and aerospace sectors.
For many observers, Air Peace’s sweep of the top honours symbolises the dawn of a new era – one in which Nigerian carriers are increasingly assertive, competitive, and globally recognised.
At the event Air Peace stood celebrated not only for its achievements but for its continued commitment to lifting Nigeria’s flag higher on the global stage, with Dr Onyema reaffirmed as one of the most influential and visionary leaders in African aviation.
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