BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has hailed Air Peace and its Chairman, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, for achieving a historic feat with the launch of direct flights from Abuja to London Heathrow, a development he described as “a defining moment for Nigeria’s aviation sector.”
Speaking at the grand inaugural ceremony in Abuja, Keyamo applauded Air Peace for its vision, resilience, and patriotism, noting that the successful acquisition of the highly coveted Heathrow slot reflects the capability of Nigerian carriers to compete globally.
“This milestone is not just a triumph for Air Peace, it is proof that Nigerian aviation has come of age and can stand shoulder to shoulder with international airlines”, he said.
Keyamo, who attended the event alongside top government officials, including the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to empowering local airlines.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his “vision, foresight, and unwavering support” toward strengthening indigenous participation in aviation.
“The mandate from Mr. President was clear, to support the growth, development, and sustenance of our local entrepreneurs within the aviation sector,” the Minister said.
“Air Peace is the biggest player we have in Nigerian aviation today, and it is the duty of the government to support such visionary local businesses.”
He revealed that the Abuja–Heathrow service was the product of sustained diplomatic negotiations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, which led to a more equitable bilateral air service framework.
“What we are witnessing today “is the result of alignment between government policy and private sector vision. When both move in the same direction, remarkable things happen”, he added.
The launch comes nearly two years after Air Peace’s successful Lagos–London Gatwick route, making it the first Nigerian carrier to operate direct flights from both Lagos and Abuja to the United Kingdom.
Keyamo also paid glowing tribute to Air Peace’s founder, describing Onyema as “the Oracle himself”, a patriotic investor whose faith in Nigeria remains unshaken.
“This is a huge investment driven by faith in the Nigerian dream.
“Dr. Onyema’s courage and consistency embody the spirit of nation-building. As a government, we will continue to protect and promote businesses like Air Peace that fly the Nigerian flag with pride.”
Keyamo added that Air Peace’s expansion marks a new chapter for the nation’s aviation industry.
“This is not just about flights. It’s about confidence, proof that our local operators can match and even surpass global standards when given the right support”, he noted.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
