In a colourful and jubilant ceremony at the check-in area of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, Nigeria’s foremost carrier, Air Peace Limited, officially inaugurated its maiden direct flight from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport , marking a major milestone for both the airline and the nation’s aviation industry.
In his remarks, Dr. Allen Onyema expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo and all stakeholders whose trust and collaboration made the achievement possible. He underscored that the success was rooted in local investment, private-sector resilience, and national pride, while calling for continued government support to strengthen indigenous airlines rather than hinder them.
He noted that Heathrow’s extensive connections, spanning Europe, the Americas, and the Caribbean would now be within reach for Nigerian travellers via Air Peace.
Present at the event were members of the airline’s management team, including Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema; Vice Chairman, Mrs. Alice Onyema; Board Members, Barr. Emeka Ngige , Mrs. Ekaette Monsuru, and Engr. Benedict Adeyileka; as well as Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Dr. Obiora Okonkwo.
Top government officials highlighted the broader national significance of the new route. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo , praised the rigorous diplomatic negotiations that secured the coveted Heathrow slot, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting indigenous airlines under bilateral air service agreements.
He described Heathrow as “the connecting capital of Europe,” emphasising that the route represents Nigeria’s insistence on fairness and reciprocity in international aviation relations.
Representing the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Deputy Chief of Staff Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia extended the government’s congratulations to Air Peace, commending the airline’s patriotism and the administration’s aviation-friendly policies.
He noted that the new route would enhance competition, service quality, and affordability in travel between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the 10th National Assembly, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, hailed the milestone as proof that “when government clears the runway, the private sector takes flight.” He celebrated Dr. Onyema as a model of integrity, entrepreneurship, and national service, stressing that the new route would inspire young Nigerians to dream beyond borders.
This landmark event cements Air Peace’s growing international footprint. As West and Central Africa’s largest airline by fleet size, the carrier launched its Lagos–London Gatwick service in March 2024 and has since expanded steadily. The new Abuja–Heathrow route, commencing 26 October 2025, makes Air Peace the first Nigerian airline to operate a direct service between the nation’s capital and London’s premier airport.
Beyond expanding route options, the development represents a leap forward for Nigeria’s aviation sector driving enhanced global connectivity, economic opportunity, competitive fares, and stronger local airline capacity. With convenient ticketing from multiple Nigerian cities through Abuja to Heathrow, Air Peace is set to deliver broader access and improved passenger experience.
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