October 26, (THEWILL) — Nigeria’s leading carrier, Air Peace Limited, has officially launched its maiden direct flight from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport, marking a major milestone in the country’s aviation history and strengthening its international connectivity.
The colourful event held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, turned the check-in area into a festive scene filled with branded décor, music, and excited passengers who received special souvenirs and treats to commemorate the landmark occasion.
In attendance were top members of the airline’s management team, including its Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema; Vice Chairman, Mrs. Alice Onyema; and Board members, Barr. Emeka Ngige (SAN), Mrs. Ekaette Monsuru, and Engr. Benedict Adeyileka. Also present was the Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Dr. Obiora Okonkwo.
Dignitaries from the Federal Government hailed the launch as a major diplomatic and economic achievement.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), commended the rigorous negotiations that secured the coveted Heathrow slot, describing it as a testament to Nigeria’s insistence on fairness and reciprocity under its bilateral air services agreements.
“The connecting capital of the whole of Europe is now within reach of Nigerian travellers,” Keyamo said, adding that the government remains committed to supporting indigenous airlines to thrive on global routes.
Representing Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, congratulated Air Peace on behalf of the Federal Government, saying the new route would boost competition, enhance service quality, and make UK travel more affordable for Nigerians.
He also lauded the airline’s patriotism and President Bola Tinubu’s enabling policies that made the breakthrough possible.
Speaking on behalf of the National Assembly, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, described the feat as proof that when the government “clears the runway,” the private sector can “take flight.”
He praised Dr. Onyema as a symbol of integrity and visionary leadership, adding that the new route would inspire young Nigerians to pursue excellence.
In his remarks, Dr. Onyema expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, the Minister of Aviation, and all stakeholders for their unwavering support.
He noted that the Abuja–Heathrow flight represents not just an aviation achievement but also a triumph of local investment, entrepreneurship, and private-sector resilience.
“This milestone is built on indigenous capacity and commitment. Heathrow’s global network — linking London to the Americas, Europe, and the Caribbean — is now accessible through a Nigerian airline.
“The government must continue to support, not stifle, indigenous aviation enterprises,” Onyema stated.
The new Abuja–Heathrow route, which officially begins operations on October 26, 2025, makes Air Peace the first Nigerian carrier to connect the nation’s capital directly to London’s premier airport.
Air Peace, already West and Central Africa’s largest airline by fleet size, continues to expand its international footprint after successfully launching its Lagos–London Gatwick route in March 2024. The airline says the new service will further deepen Nigeria’s global aviation presence and boost confidence in local carriers.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
