Allen Onyema hails Tinubu administration’s support for local aviation
Allen Onyema, Chairman of Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest airline, has emphasized the strategic importance of aviation in advancing international trade, boosting tourism, and strengthening diplomatic and economic ties. Onyema made these remarks during Air Peace’s official induction into the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC).
The event, held in Lagos at the Chamber’s Quarterly Members’ Evening and Induction Ceremony, carried the theme: “Trade Without Borders: Aviation as a Catalyst for Bilateral Growth between Nigeria and the UK.”
According to Onyema, air transport is not just a means of mobility but a critical economic enabler, especially for emerging economies like Nigeria. He highlighted how improved aviation connectivity enhances market access, reduces trade costs, and facilitates people-to-people exchange, all of which are essential for fostering bilateral growth.
“Aviation remains the bridge that connects economies. It lowers trade barriers, facilitates tourism, builds global partnerships, and unlocks untapped trade opportunities,” Onyema said.
Tinubu administration praised for bold stance on local airline rights
Onyema lauded the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation for their unwavering support of Nigeria’s domestic carriers, particularly in the face of foreign competition.
He recounted a key moment during the airline’s entry into the UK aviation market, when the Tinubu administration stepped in to ensure Air Peace was granted reciprocal entry rights under the existing Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
“President Tinubu and the 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.
The Nigerian government’s support, he said, reflects a shift towards economic nationalism, where indigenous enterprises are empowered to compete globally on fair terms.
Learn more about BASA Agreements via the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
NBCC welcomes Air Peace into the trade community
The Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) formally inducted Air Peace into its membership in recognition of its efforts in strengthening Nigeria–UK trade relations through aviation.
Prince Abimbola Olashore, President and Chairman of the NBCC Council, praised Air Peace for challenging the status quo in international aviation. He described the airline’s milestone as not just symbolic, but also practical in expanding mutual prosperity between the two nations.
“Air Peace is redefining Nigeria’s trade links with the UK. Their entry into the Chamber is both timely and significant,” Olashore stated.
Air Peace seen as a symbol of resilience and innovation
Chairman of the NBCC Membership Committee, Dr. Nnamdi Okonkwo, said Air Peace’s growth story reflects the values the Chamber stands for—resilience, innovation, and faith in Nigeria’s economic potential.
“Air Peace’s journey reinforces the NBCC’s mission to support enterprises that transform bilateral trade,” Okonkwo said.
Founded in 2013, Air Peace has grown into West Africa’s largest airline, operating domestic and international routes, including the Lagos–London route launched in 2024. The airline’s expansion has helped diversify Nigeria’s aviation sector, which has long been dominated by foreign carriers.
More on the Chamber’s initiatives can be found on the NBCC official website.
Aviation’s growing role in economic diplomacy
Industry experts agree that aviation plays an increasingly important role in economic diplomacy, especially for developing countries looking to improve exports, investments, and people exchange. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), air connectivity boosts GDP, attracts foreign direct investment, and strengthens social and business ties.
Nigeria’s air travel sector contributes significantly to its GDP and employs tens of thousands directly and indirectly. With more support from government and chambers of commerce, local operators like Air Peace could emerge as regional champions and global players.
