Air Peace: UK Never Denied Us Entry For Seven Years, We’ll Commence Abuja-London Flights 0ct 26

Air Peace has dismissed reports suggesting that its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, accused the British authorities of preventing the airline from operating flights into London for seven years.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the airline clarified that Onyema never made such an allegation. Instead, it stressed that he had praised the British authorities for their support in making Air Peace operations in the United Kingdom “easy and seamless.”

“Our CEO never made such a statement accusing the British authorities,” the airline said. “Instead, he praised and commended the British authorities for their cooperation in making Air Peace operations in the UK easy and seamless.”

It added that the damaging claim was designed to stir division. “This deliberate falsehood is authored and circulated with malicious intent to cause disaffection between Air Peace and its hosts, the British people,” the statement noted.

The airline also reaffirmed its confidence in British support. “For the avoidance of doubt, the British authorities have been supportive of Air Peace’s UK operations, and preparations are fully underway for our inaugural Abuja-London service on October 26, 2025,” the management said.

Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest carrier, has been steadily expanding its international footprint. In March 2024, it became the first Nigerian airline in decades to launch direct Lagos-London flights, challenging the long-standing dominance of British Airways and Virgin Atlantic on the lucrative route. The move was widely hailed as a game-changer for Nigerian travellers, many of whom had endured years of high fares due to limited competition.

Industry observers note that Air Peace’s growing UK presence is not just about passenger convenience but also about Nigeria asserting itself in global aviation. With the Abuja-London launch, more Nigerians will gain direct access to the UK capital, reinforcing the airline’s role in bridging economic and cultural ties between both nations.

The statement concluded with a reassurance to the public: “Air Peace remains committed to strengthening Nigeria’s presence in global aviation while delivering safe, affordable, and world-class services to the flying public.”

Faridah Abdulkadiri

Source: Arise