January 14, (THEWILL) – West and Central Africa’s largest airline, Air Peace Limited, has achieved a significant milestone by securing its sixth consecutive International Air Transport Association Operational Safety Audit Certification.
This achievement underscores Air Peace’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest global safety standards in aviation, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.
At the presentation ceremony, Air Peace’s Head of Quality, Engineer Patrick Achurefe, expressed gratitude to the airline’s Chairman, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, for his steadfast support throughout the rigorous audit process.
“We are grateful to our chairman for believing in our capabilities and supporting the meticulous efforts required for this achievement,” Achurefe said.
Air Peace first secured its place on the IOSA registry in 2016, just two years after its operations began.
Since then, the airline has consistently met the stringent standards required to maintain its global recognition, earning certifications in subsequent years.
“I am elated that we did not disappoint, as the process managers involved in the audit demonstrated exceptional expertise and dedication,” Achurefe added.
Dr. Samson Fatokun, Area Manager for West and Central Africa at the International Air Transport Association praised Air Peace for being a source of pride for Nigeria. He emphasized that the airline’s success in its first decade of operations is no coincidence.
“Air Peace’s presence on the IOSA registry is a testament to its unwavering dedication to safety, operational excellence, and professionalism. This milestone is not just a victory for the airline but a pride for Nigeria. It proves that local carriers can operate at the highest international safety levels,” Fatokun said.
Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema, expressed his gratitude to the airline’s management team for their tireless efforts in achieving this feat.
“Today marks another significant milestone for our young and ambitious airline. This sixth IOSA certification is a testament to our commitment to global safety standards and affirms that we are on the right track. It gives our passengers confidence that their safety remains our top priority,” Dr. Onyema stated.
He also commended Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Hon. Festus Keyamo, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for implementing progressive policies that are transforming the country’s aviation sector.
“Under Minister Keyamo’s guidance, Nigeria’s signing of the Cape Town Convention has opened new opportunities for the aviation industry. This move will enhance the capacity of local airlines, reduce operational costs, and ultimately lead to more competitive airfares,” Onyema said.
Onyema further expressed appreciation for IATA’s support in ensuring African airlines, including Air Peace, have a prominent voice on the global stage.
The event, held at Air Peace’s corporate headquarters in Lagos, was attended by IATA’s Dr. Samson Fatokun, along with Air Peace’s top executives, including Director of Flight Operations Captain Augustin Kamano, Head of Training Captain Gerald Udaya, Safety Manager Captain Godfrey Ogbogu, Head of Corporate Communications Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, Cabin Services Manager Ikwo Iyanam, Head of IT James Bello, and Head of Sales and Business Development Davids Odeyemi.
This latest IOSA certification is a testament to Air Peace’s deep-rooted safety culture, robust management systems, and commitment to continuous improvement. It sets a new benchmark for safety in African aviation and serves as an inspiration for other carriers across the continent.
By consistently meeting and exceeding international safety standards, Air Peace continues to solidify its status as a leading force in African aviation, a source of national pride for Nigeria, and a trusted airline for millions of passengers globally.
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.
