Advertisement
Air Peace has launched its maiden Nigeria–Brazil direct flight, a historic milestone that redefines connectivity between Africa’s largest economy and South America’s powerhouse.
The Lagos–Brazil service strengthens bilateral ties and establishes a vital bridge for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
This development comes after discussions between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
Both leaders identified Nigeria–Brazil aviation cooperation as a driver of renewed economic and diplomatic relations, with Air Peace as the key facilitator.
Minister Highlights Nigeria–Brazil Partnership
At the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Terminal 2, Lagos, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), described the direct service as a product of President Tinubu’s diplomatic efforts.
“What we are seeing today is the first fruit of the diplomatic shuttle of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Brazil. In his wisdom, the President has decided to reopen and expand our economic, diplomatic, and trade relations with Brazil. Brazil is the biggest economy in South America, and Nigeria is considered the biggest economy in Africa. Connecting these two economies was very key to both presidents,” Keyamo said.
He explained that the new Nigeria–Brazil direct flights would cut travel time to seven hours, eliminating detours through Europe or the Middle East. This, he stressed, will boost trade, expand tourism, and open opportunities for cultural partnerships.
Onyema Calls the Nigeria–Brazil Link a Bridge
Air Peace Chairman/CEO, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, commended President Tinubu for creating the environment for aviation diplomacy to flourish. He emphasised that the Nigeria–Brazil route is more than a flight, it is a bridge uniting two continents.
“The President is not seeking partnerships that will lord over us. He is seeking partnerships that are symbiotic in nature not parasitic, partners who will respect our sovereignty and not bully us,” Onyema said.
He added: “This is not just a flight; it is a bridge. Connectivity is at the heart of true partnership. By opening this corridor, we are bringing Nigeria closer to Brazil and, by extension, to South America and the Caribbean. This is the beginning of long-lasting opportunities for both regions.”
Wider Impact of the Nigeria–Brazil Service
Air Peace will initially operate the Lagos–Brazil route three times weekly, with plans to increase frequency. The service makes Nigeria a gateway for West and Central Africa into South America while giving Brazil wider access to African markets.
Analysts note that Nigeria–Brazil connectivity will attract investors, promote cultural exchange, and unlock new business opportunities across aviation, trade, and tourism. The initiative positions Air Peace as a continental leader, using aviation to drive diplomacy and economic growth.
Through this launch, Air Peace strengthens its role not only as Nigeria’s largest carrier but also as a regional bridge-builder. The Nigeria–Brazil direct flights confirm Africa’s growing presence in global aviation and underscore the importance of partnerships built on mutual respect.
Advertisement
