The Federal Government (FG) has said the launch of the Maiden Airpeace Flight from Lagos to London is part of efforts to bring succour to Nigerian travellers.
The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo commended the introduction of the Air Peace Lagos to London flight and reiterated his commitment to continue working hard to ensure that Nigerians get succor while traveling.
Keyamo, who made the remarks on his X page, said, “When we assumed office, one of the KPIs we announced was “support for the growth and sustenance of local airline businesses whilst holding them to the highest international standards in the aviation industry.
“It was in pursuance of this that yesterday I launched the Maiden Airpeace Flight from Lagos to London after months of shuttling between both countries to make this happen.
“This has broken a long-standing monopoly on that route, and as a result, Nigerians will benefit from more competitive prices.
“We will continue our hard work that will be aligned with our mission to ultimately bring succor to Nigerian travelers.”
In a press statement by the spokesman of Air Peace, Stanley Olisa, the minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite, described the Lagos to London feat by Air Peace as the convergence of innovation, determination, and the unwavering commitment to excellence.
“Nigeria has needed a local airline flying directly to the London, UK for a number of years. Air Peace proudly wears the badge of Made in Nigeria. It is a symbol of our collective effort to showcase our capabilities to the world. From the skilled hands that maintain the aircraft to the warm smiles of the cabin crew, every aspect of Air Peace reflects the spirit of our nation.
“Let us reflect on the economic impact of this flight. Air Peace’s presence in London is not merely about arrivals and departures; it is about trade, investment, and collaboration. By choosing Air Peace, you choose to invest in Nigeria. You choose to empower local businesses, create jobs, and strengthen our economy. In December 2023, the UK exported £185 million to Nigeria and imported £154 million, resulting in a negative trade balance of £30.8 million. This is a trend we wish to change in Nigeria’s favour and an additional trade route is a major step in the right direction,” she said.
She said the choice of Nigerians to fly with Air Peace was a vote of confidence, adding that the airline has a commendable safety record, holding a seven out of seven safety rating according to Airline Ratings and has successfully undergone the International Air Transport Association Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification four times, signifying its commitment to rigorous safety standards.
“So I entreat all potential passengers to trust them to carry you safely across continents, and remember that you are part of a movement—a movement that encourages Nigerians to patronize their own. Let us be ambassadors in the skies, sharing stories of our rich heritage, our vibrant culture, and the warmth that defines us,” Uzoka-Anite added.
Similarly, the Acting Director-General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, insisted that for indigenous airlines to succeed on any international route, it was necessary for the government to adopt the ‘Fly Nigeria Act’ for public officials.
