Air Peace, the largest airline in West and Central Africa, has reached another significant milestone with the arrival of a dry-leased Boeing 737-700 NG from AerCap, the world’s leading aircraft leasing company.
This marks Nigeria’s first dry lease in nearly ten years, signaling renewed international confidence in the country’s aviation industry.
The unveiling ceremony took place at the Zulu Terminal Complex, Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos and brought together an esteemed gathering of dignitaries, financial partners, and key aviation stakeholders. Distinguished guests included the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, the Ambassador of Ireland to Nigeria, Mr. Peter Ryan, NCAA Director General, Captain Chris Najomo, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku and senior executives from Fidelity Bank including the Managing Director/CEO Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Executive Director Dr. Ken Opara, and Executive Director Kevin Ugwuoke.
Boeing’s Sales Director for Africa, Mr. Moore Ibekwe Jr., hailed the acquisition as “a landmark moment for Nigeria and proof of Air Peace’s commitment to excellence and growth.” He commended the collaboration between Boeing, AerCap, the NCAA, and the Ministry of Aviation, noting that the milestone would boost regional connectivity and employment opportunities.
Mr. Gad Wavomba, AerCap’s Vice President of Leasing, expressed pride in the partnership and praised Air Peace’s determination throughout the process. He attributed the success of the lease to strong government backing, the NCAA’s 83Bis Agreement, and the cooperation of Irish authorities.
Speaking on behalf of Fidelity Bank’s Managing Director, Mr. Kevin Ugwuoke reaffirmed the bank’s solid relationship with Air Peace, describing the dry lease arrangement as “a natural step forward” following previous wet-lease projects. He emphasised that the aircraft represents both a major achievement for the airline and a transformative leap for Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
Avolta International’s Managing Director, Mr. John Hines, also lauded Air Peace, describing the airline as a symbol of “national pride and purpose.” He remarked that airlines carry not only passengers but also “the aspirations, trade, and spirit of a nation.”
Ireland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Peter Ryan, praised Air Peace’s leadership and values, describing the Nigeria-Ireland aviation collaboration as “a mutually rewarding bridge toward shared prosperity.” He acknowledged the vital roles played by AerCap, Boeing, FAAN, and the NCAA in advancing Nigeria’s aviation development.
In his keynote address, Air Peace Chairman Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema extended heartfelt appreciation to all partners and the Nigerian government, particularly Minister Festus Keyamo for creating the enabling conditions that made the dry lease possible. He reiterated the airline’s commitment to safety, integrity, and national service, affirming Air Peace’s focus on fleet expansion and enhanced connectivity to drive economic growth across Africa.
Minister Keyamo described the achievement as a major step in rebuilding international trust in Nigeria’s aviation sector. He highlighted ongoing reforms such as the IDERA framework aimed at protecting investors and ensuring transparency. The Minister also announced plans to modernize Lagos International Airport, acquire wide-body aircraft, and establish a Nigerian Aircraft Leasing Company to improve fleet accessibility for local airlines.
He applauded Air Peace for setting new industry standards and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s support for indigenous carriers in reclaiming a greater share of Nigeria’s aviation market.
With the addition of the Boeing 737-700 NG, Air Peace reinforces its mission to unite Nigeria, connect Africa, and extend its reach globally through excellence and peace.
Continuing to chart new paths from pioneering international routes to forging strategic alliances, Air Peace remains a proud emblem of innovation, resilience, and national pride in African aviation.
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