Air Peace Touches Down at Heathrow, Signalling a New Chapter for Nigerian Aviation
By Naija Enquirer Staff
Nigeria’s largest airline, Air Peace, has launched its Abuja–London Heathrow service, marking another milestone in the country’s growing aviation ambitions. The maiden flight, which departed from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Sunday, represents more than a new route — it signals renewed confidence in the ability of Nigerian carriers to compete globally.
The new service follows the success of Air Peace’s Lagos–London Gatwick route, which began in March 2024 and quickly became one of the busiest West African connections to the UK. The expansion to Heathrow strengthens Nigeria’s international connectivity and provides passengers across the country with more travel options through seamless Abuja links.
At the departure ceremony, there was a mood of celebration among passengers, staff, and government officials, who described the event as a moment of national pride.
Air Peace Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, said the milestone shows that Nigerian airlines can thrive internationally with the right policy support.
“This success is a direct result of government listening to the yearnings of its people,” Onyema stated. “What we are celebrating is patriotism and love for one’s country.”
He noted that access to Heathrow — one of the world’s busiest airports — places Air Peace in a stronger position to serve routes across Europe, the Americas, and the Caribbean, expanding Nigeria’s aviation footprint.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), said the achievement followed “intensive diplomatic efforts” to secure Heathrow slots under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA). He explained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is determined to ensure Nigerian airlines fully utilise their international rights and reclaim their place in global aviation.
Representing Vice President Kashim Shettima, Deputy Chief of Staff Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia praised Air Peace for its resilience and commitment to improving service quality and affordability for Nigerians.
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, also lauded the airline’s feat, saying it demonstrates how government and private enterprise can work together to drive national progress.
“When government clears the runway, the private sector takes flight,” he remarked.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Air Peace Vice Chairman Alice Onyema, Board Member Barrister Emeka Ngige (SAN), and Dr. Obiora Okonkwo, Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines.
For passengers on the inaugural flight, the day carried a mix of excitement and optimism — a reminder that Nigeria’s aviation story, long grounded by challenges, is finally finding altitude.
