This announcement was made during the 10th-anniversary celebration of Air Peace at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos. Keyamo praised Air Peace, recognized as the leading airline in Nigeria and the West African region, for its exceptional operations that have enhanced the country's reputation in the international aviation arena.
He emphasized the federal government's commitment to providing ongoing support to the airline to ensure its continued success. Keyamo remarked, “Air Peace serves as a proud representative of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We take pride in supporting our local airlines, particularly Air Peace, as it showcases our national flag globally.”
He noted that Air Peace competes with some of the largest airlines worldwide, a remarkable achievement for a local entrepreneur, deserving of all accolades and support.
The minister pointed out that Air Peace's adherence to global standards and innovative practices, combined with government initiatives, is drawing attention to Nigeria's aviation capabilities, leading international lessors and financiers to express interest in collaborating with Nigerian airline operators on dry leasing and other financial arrangements.
“We got a letter yesterday inviting all of us to Ireland in January. Because of what we have done in the last few months since we came to office, the collection of the leading aircraft lessors and financiers in the world have invited us to a meeting in Ireland in January.
“They want to start discussing at the highest level with Nigerian operators the business of aircraft leasing and financing. We are on the right path and all thanks to people like Allen Onyema.” The minister highlighted the tough aviation terrain in the country, which has led to the death of numerous airlines in the past.
“If you look at the history of airlines in Nigeria, it is difficult for them to survive more than 10 years and still look healthy. We have a history of great mortality of airlines; more than a hundred airlines in the last 40 years or so, and I am sure you all remember from the Concord to the Zenith to Okada to the Bellviews to the ADCs,” Keyamo said.
Air Peace has defied industry trends by celebrating a decade of successful operations and continues to thrive. “Air Peace has reached its 10-year milestone, remaining robust and vibrant, and is actually experiencing growth rather than decline.”
In response to the minister, Dr. Allen Onyema expressed optimism regarding the aviation sector's revival over the past year, attributing this positive shift to the appointment of Keyamo as minister, who has initiated significant reforms to enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian airlines.
“Now, you must have noticed some changes in the aviation industry in the last year. I want to use this opportunity to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating a platform through the instrumentality of his appointment of Festus Keyamo as Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development. So, if I praise President Tinubu, you must know I am telling the truth because I am involved,” Onyema stated.
He emphasized that the airline remains committed to innovation and excellence, aiming to elevate Nigeria's presence in the global aviation arena.