Follow Us on Google
From Sola Ojo, Abuja
Nigeria’s aviation industry recorded another milestone on Sunday as the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, led a delegation of dignitaries on Air Peace’s inaugural direct flight from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport.
The flight which departed from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, marked the first time a Nigerian carrier is operating a direct Abuja-London service into Heathrow, one of the world’s busiest international hubs.
Speaking at the send-off ceremony, the Minister described the development as a major victory for Nigeria’s aviation diplomacy, achieved under the clear directive of President Bola Tinubu to strengthen local carriers and ensure fair reciprocity in international air services.
“We had a clear mandate to support the growth, sustenance, and competitiveness of our local operators. For over 40 years, more than 100 Nigerian airlines have come and gone.
“Today’s success is proof that we can build a resilient private sector if we give them the right environment,” Keyamo said.
Keyamo noted that the landmark flight followed months of negotiation with the UK Department for Transport, culminating in the granting of Heathrow slots to Air Peace a privilege previously monopolised by foreign airlines despite existing Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASA).
He added that the move symbolises Nigeria’s readiness to assert its rights under international aviation treaties and promote indigenous participation in global routes.
Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, hailed the Minister’s intervention, describing him as “a listening leader” whose efforts have lifted many of the burdens faced by domestic airlines.
“When the Customs introduced a 4 peri FOB charge on aviation imports, the Minister intervened immediately. Within a week, it was removed.
“It’s not just about Air Peace; every local airline has benefited from this government’s responsiveness,” he said.
The Abuja-London service is expected to enhance connectivity for Nigerian travelers, strengthen bilateral trade, and further project Nigerian aviation on the global stage.
