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BY ANTHONY OMOH
Chairman of Air Peace, Mr. Allen Onyema, has announced that the airline’s acquisition of 21 Embraer aircraft marks a decisive step in regional expansion and Nigeria’s aviation leadership.
Speaking after the inaugural Air Peace flight from Brazil landed in Lagos on Wednesday, Onyema said the airline’s investment would strengthen connectivity, enhance cultural exchange, and boost trade.
He stressed that the upcoming direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil will be a major turning point for both nations.
$2 Billion Embraer Aircraft Investment
Onyema revealed that Air Peace ordered 21 aircraft from Brazilian manufacturer Embraer.
The order consists of five Embraers E-175 and 16 E-2 jets. Already, five of these aircraft have arrived in Nigeria.
“By September 17, we will lay the foundation for a modern maintenance hangar in Lagos,” Onyema explained. “Embraer will provide technical support, and within 12 to 15 months, the facility will be operational.”
He emphasised that this development will reduce reliance on costly overseas maintenance, create skilled jobs, and improve Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure. According to him, the maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO) centre will place Nigeria among aviation hubs in Africa.
Bilateral Support and Sovereignty
Onyema praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring that bilateral engagements with Brazil respect Nigeria’s sovereignty. He noted that the Brazilian government is eager to provide technology transfer and tourism support.
“This is not a parasitic relationship. It is symbiotic and respects our sovereignty,” Onyema stressed. “The Brazilians are prepared to open up their expertise for Nigeria’s use.”
Market Opportunities in South America
Onyema confirmed that he will meet Colombia’s Vice President in September to discuss possible connections. He also emphasised the Afro-Brazilian community, noting that over 100 million Brazilians share African heritage, which provides a natural bridge with Nigeria.
Lower Fares, Wider Access
The Air Peace chairman said the airline’s London route demonstrates how direct flights can transform pricing.
“Before Air Peace, business class tickets to London cost ₦15–16 million. We entered with ₦4 million, forcing competitors to slash fares,” Onyema said.
He assured that passengers on Nigeria-Brazil services would enjoy affordable pricing when operations begin in quarter four of 2025. He insisted that Nigerians must never again face exploitative international fares.
National Pride and Presidential Support
Onyema expressed pride that both President Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva endorsed Air Peace. He described this endorsement as a historic recognition of Nigeria’s aviation potential.
“What happened in Brazil was historic. Both presidents stood with Air Peace. This is a national achievement,” Onyema stated.
He added that President Tinubu has consistently supported Air Peace, treating him not through ethnic lines but as a Nigerian entrepreneur contributing to the nation’s progress.
Strategic Partnerships and Next Steps
Onyema disclosed that Air Peace is already in discussions with Brazilian airlines for interline agreements, although details remain under non-disclosure terms. He said such collaboration, supported by both governments, would further expand connectivity.
“Brazil is nine times bigger than Nigeria. Once they capture Nigeria, they capture Africa. That is why this partnership matters,” Onyema concluded.
With a $2 billion Embraer deal, an MRO facility underway, and the launch of Nigeria-Brazil direct flights, Air Peace is positioning Nigeria as a major player in international aviation.
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