Air Peace Honours Gold Chinyere Ike, First Woman to Fly from Her Community
Nigeria’s leading airline, Air Peace, in a heartwarming gesture, has celebrated Gold Chinyere Ike – the first woman from Umuerim Umukparo in Mbala, Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State – to travel by air.
According to a statement signed by Dr Ejike Ndiulo, Head of Corporate Communications at Air Peace, her maiden flight aboard the airline’s aircraft has not only stirred emotions across social media but also spotlighted the boundless potential air travel holds in opening new vistas of opportunity.
Chinyere Ike, a graduate of Nursing from Abia State University and a thriving entrepreneurial farmer, captured the nation’s attention in March 2025 when she took to social media to share the wonder and excitement of her very first flight.
Her candid and emotive post struck a chord with Nigerians far and wide, many of whom were moved by the genuine awe in her voice and the context of her humble beginnings.
“When we were on air, I could see the sky differently,” she recounted. “Down here, we look up to the sky. But when you’re flying, it’s almost like the sky is beneath you. I couldn’t stop thinking about how such a heavy plane could stay up there.”
The dream of flying had been alive in Chinyere’s imagination since childhood. She fondly recalled strolling with her father and watching planes cross the skies above their village.
“I used to say they were throwing down gifts like in Christmas stories,” she said with laughter. Now, that fantasy has become a reality – one that her entire community has embraced and celebrated.
Recognising the symbolic weight of her journey, the Air Peace Corporate Communications team visited Chinyere in her hometown of Mbala to celebrate her inspiring feat.
Their arrival was met with scenes of pure joy and cultural pride: the sound of drums, traditional Egede dance performances, and villagers pouring out in numbers to witness what many called a historic moment.
“I didn’t know what to expect,” Chinyere said, overwhelmed by the occasion. “That you people came to my village just because of me… I’m grateful. The community is so happy.”
Representing the Chairman/CEO of Air Peace, Dr Allen Onyema, the team presented Chinyere with two complimentary return Economy tickets to any domestic destination of her choice, along with branded souvenirs.
In his message, Dr Onyema stated, “Ms. Gold Chinyere Ike’s journey represents exactly why we do what we do. Air Peace was founded not only to provide safe and affordable air travel, but to make flying accessible to everyday Nigerians – women, men, young people – regardless of their background. We believe that when people move, dreams move with them.”
Chinyere, visibly touched, expressed deep appreciation for the unexpected recognition. “I never expected this,” she said, her voice thick with emotion. “Air Peace is the biggest, not just in Africa, but worldwide.”
When asked where she wished to visit next, she beamed with enthusiasm. “Lagos again – and Abuja! I’ve never been there before,” she added, her eyes shining with the same wonder that brought her story to life online.
Her father, a long-time supporter of Air Peace, shared in the moment with pride. “I always loved flying Air Peace, and when it was time for my daughter to travel, I insisted she fly with them.” Her mother also expressed her joy and gratitude. “For you to come here, to honour our daughter – it means so much. We thank Dr Onyema, and we thank God for journey mercies.”
Chinyere’s story is more than a viral moment; it is a testament to progress and the power of dreams taking flight. Through this celebration, Air Peace reaffirms its commitment to bridging gaps – not only geographical but also social and economic – by connecting the remotest corners of Nigeria to opportunities across the nation and beyond.
Since its inception, Air Peace has remained steadfast in its mission to democratise air travel, creating thousands of jobs, stimulating local economies, and giving voice to countless personal journeys like Chinyere’s.
Whether it is a student pursuing education abroad or an entrepreneur chasing new markets, the airline continues to serve as a vehicle for empowerment and national development.
As Gold Chinyere Ike’s inspiring flight echoes across the country, Air Peace has once again demonstrated that the sky is not just a destination – but a symbol of possibility.
