Nigeria’s foremost privately owned carrier, Air Peace, has once again etched its name in the annals of aviation history with the successful launch of direct flights between London Heathrow Airport and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja – restoring Nigeria’s presence on one of the world’s most competitive air corridors after over a decade of absence.
At a colourful inauguration ceremony hosted by London Heathrow Airport authorities to celebrate the maiden flight, Nnenna Onyema, Executive Director of International Operations at Air Peace, described the new route as “a symbol of national pride and resilience.”
“This operation represents more than a new connection between two capitals,” Onyema said. “It is a renewed declaration of Nigeria’s presence in global aviation. For years, there was silence in the skies. Today, that silence ends. Our flag flies again because, as we say back home, ‘Naija no dey carry last.’”
She highlighted that the airline’s journey over the past 11 years has been nothing short of extraordinary. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, Air Peace has grown from a domestic operator into West and Central Africa’s largest privately owned airline, boasting a fleet of over 30 aircraft. The airline was also the first Nigerian carrier to acquire and register a Boeing 777, symbolising its ambition to compete on the global stage.
Since 2016, Air Peace has retained its International Air Transport Association Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification, reaffirming its commitment to the highest international safety and operational standards.
The launch of the London–Abuja route is expected to significantly enhance accessibility, affordability, and connectivity for Nigerians and the wider African diaspora.
Through Air Peace’s extensive regional network, travellers can now connect seamlessly from Abuja to other West African destinations including Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Senegal.
Onyema expressed profound appreciation to the Federal Government of Nigeria for its support of indigenous airlines, particularly acknowledging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, for implementing policies that foster a business-friendly environment in the nation’s aviation industry.
She also lauded the management of London Heathrow Airport and the Air Peace project team for their collaboration and dedication in bringing the landmark operation to fruition.
In a statement following the event, Air Peace described the milestone as “a seed of hope” and “a rebirth of Nigeria’s aviation strength.”
“This new operation is more than a flight – it is a statement,” the airline declared. “It signifies a future where Nigeria connects seamlessly with the world – stronger, prouder, and ready to compete globally.”
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