The CEO of Air Peace, Mr. Allen Onyema, has asked for better cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom in aviation rules. He believes this will make trade easier, reduce delays, and help businesses grow between the two countries.
Onyema made this request during an event on Thursday night in Lagos. The event was organised by the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) for its members and to welcome new ones.
The theme of the event was “Trade without Borders: Aviation as a Catalyst for Bilateral Growth between Nigeria and UK.”
Onyema said that Nigeria and the UK have a long-standing relationship, with trade between them now worth nearly £8 billion every year.
However, he pointed out that people and businesses have faced problems for years, including high travel costs, limited flights, and relying too much on foreign airlines.
Because of these challenges, Nigeria has missed many trade opportunities. Exporters struggle to meet deadlines, students and professionals pay too much for travel, and airlines spend a lot of money fixing their planes overseas.
Onyema stressed that both countries need to stick to fair agreements. He also said Nigeria should make it easier to clear cargo and continue supporting local airlines.
He praised President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, for the changes they’ve made in the aviation industry.
He also thanked the Deputy British High Commissioner, Mr. Johnny Baxter, for helping Air Peace start flying to the UK.
Onyema said the support from both governments helped Nigerian airlines feel confident enough to grow and represent Nigeria internationally.
He explained that aviation is not just for luxury. It helps reduce the cost of trade, brings in investments, supports tourism, and connects people from different countries.
“Aviation is more than just planes flying,” he said. “It connects nations, helps businesses grow, and turns dreams into real opportunities.”
He added, “When a plane takes off, it’s not just a trip — it’s a bridge that carries our people, products, and potential.”
Onyema said Air Peace is proud to represent Nigeria as its only local airline flying directly to the UK. The airline plans to start Abuja–London flights in October.
He also shared that Air Peace has started building what will be the largest aircraft maintenance centre in Africa, located at Lagos’ international airport.
The facility will cover 34,000 square metres and cost N32 billion. It is expected to create over 50,000 jobs both directly and indirectly.
Onyema called for support for other local companies like the Dangote refinery. He said harming Nigerian businesses is unpatriotic and could lead to more insecurity.
During the event, Onyema approved a locally made coffee that was given to him to be served on Air Peace flights.
Prince Abimbola Olashore, President of NBCC, praised Onyema for showing strength, patriotism, and a strong drive for success through Air Peace.
He said Onyema has improved Nigeria’s global presence in aviation and shown what Nigerian businesses can achieve.
Olashore also encouraged new NBCC members to help build a brighter future by sharing their ideas and working toward stronger business ties between Nigeria and the UK.
