Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has praised Air Peace and its Chairman, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, for achieving what he described as a landmark breakthrough with the launch of direct flights from Abuja to London Heathrow – a milestone that firmly positions Nigeria on the global aviation map.
At a grand inaugural ceremony held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, the Minister hailed the development as a defining chapter in Nigeria’s aviation story. He commended Air Peace for demonstrating uncommon resilience, business acumen, and patriotic commitment in expanding the frontiers of Nigerian air travel.
“The attainment of the Heathrow slot is no small feat,” Keyamo declared. “It represents a triumph not only for Air Peace but for the entire Nigerian aviation industry. This is proof that local operators can hold their own in the most competitive international markets when given the right support.”
The Minister, who was joined by top government dignitaries, including the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, noted that the landmark flight symbolises the realisation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a reformed, inclusive, and globally competitive aviation sector.
Keyamo emphasised that President Tinubu’s administration had given a clear directive to strengthen the capacity and sustainability of local airlines, ensuring that indigenous players benefit fully from international air transport opportunities.
“The President has made it clear – we must grow our own. We must nurture our indigenous airlines and create an enabling environment for them to thrive,” Keyamo stated. “Air Peace stands today as a shining example of what can happen when vision meets opportunity and government provides the necessary support.”
He revealed that the Abuja–Heathrow route was the product of extensive bilateral engagements between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, leading to a fairer and more balanced air services agreement.
According to him, this successful negotiation demonstrates that national interest can be safeguarded through dialogue and strategic partnership.
The new service follows Air Peace’s historic debut on the Lagos–London Gatwick route in 2024, making the airline the first Nigerian carrier to operate direct flights from both Abuja and Lagos to the United Kingdom. This feat, Keyamo said, has redefined Nigeria’s aviation landscape and showcased the ingenuity of Nigerian entrepreneurship on a global stage.
In his remarks, the Minister offered glowing praise for Dr. Allen Onyema, whom he fondly referred to as “the Oracle himself”, describing him as a man of vision and courage whose unwavering belief in Nigeria continues to inspire confidence in the country’s potential.
“Dr. Onyema is not just an investor; he is a patriot,” Keyamo said. “This massive investment is anchored on faith – faith in Nigeria, faith in our people, and faith in our ability to compete globally. His leadership and tenacity mirror the resilience of the Nigerian spirit.”
He added that Air Peace’s success is a symbol of what is possible when the private sector and government align to pursue a common goal. “This is a win for every Nigerian,” he said. “It proves that when we support our own, Nigeria can stand shoulder to shoulder with any nation in the world.”
Keyamo reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to promoting indigenous airlines and ensuring that the aviation sector remains a key driver of economic growth, connectivity, and national pride.
With the commencement of the Abuja–London Heathrow operations, Air Peace has once again etched its name in history as a trailblazer in African aviation.
The development not only enhances Nigeria’s international connectivity but also reinforces the airline’s status as West and Central Africa’s largest carrier – a brand built on excellence, reliability, and an unshakable belief in the Nigerian dream.
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