Onyema Applauds Tinubu’s Bold Aviation Policy, Hails British Diplomacy for Seamless UK Breakthrough

Air Peace Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, has expressed profound appreciation to both the Federal Government of Nigeria under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the British diplomatic mission in Lagos for their pivotal roles in facilitating the airline’s historic entry into the United Kingdom aviation market.

Speaking as guest speaker at the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) Induction Ceremony and Members’ Evening in Lagos, Onyema hailed President Tinubu’s administration for championing the cause of indigenous carriers on the global stage.

He disclosed that the government stood firmly behind Air Peace during its push for direct entry rights into the UK, ensuring reciprocity in bilateral agreements.

“President Tinubu and the Honourable Minister of Aviation did everything possible to support us. The President even warned that if Air Peace was denied entry rights, there would be consequences. That bold stance made all the difference,” Onyema said.

He noted that such firm government backing has empowered Nigerian airlines to challenge entrenched monopolies and provide affordable travel alternatives, with Air Peace’s London operations already reshaping the Nigeria–UK corridor by driving down fares.

In addition to applauding the Nigerian government, Onyema extended special recognition to the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr. Johnny Baxter, describing him as “a diplomat par excellence whose unwavering support has ensured seamless connectivity for Air Peace in the UK.”

He clarified that contrary to some misleading reports, both governments worked hand in hand to make Air Peace’s London service a reality. “Our London flights are not just about moving passengers but about moving hope — the hope of a continent determined to trade fairly, travel freely, and prosper fully,” Onyema emphasised.

The airline launched its direct Lagos–London Gatwick service earlier this year, eliminating long layovers and introducing affordable fares that have transformed travel between both countries. Air Peace is now set to deepen this connectivity with the commencement of Abuja–London flights in October, further strengthening bilateral ties.

NBCC leaders commended Onyema’s candour and Air Peace’s bold strides. NBCC President, Prince Abimbola Olashore, reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to policies aligned with Nigeria’s long-term economic aspirations, while Membership Committee Chairman, Dr. Nnamdi Okonkwo, stressed that Air Peace’s membership of the Chamber would further drive synergies between aviation and trade.

Founded just over a decade ago, Air Peace has built a reputation as Nigeria’s aviation powerhouse. With a fleet of more than 40 aircraft, including Boeing 777s and Embraer 195-E2s, the airline has led critical evacuation missions from South Africa, Ukraine, and Sudan, while pioneering long-haul services that connect Nigeria directly to strategic destinations across the globe.