By Chinelo Obogo
Air Peace Limited has achieved a significant milestone by securing its sixth consecutive International Air Transport Association (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) Certification.
The accomplishment highlights the airline’s dedication to upholding the highest global safety standards, further cementing its leadership in the aviation industry.
At the ceremony, Air Peace’s Head of Quality, Patrick Achurefe, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the airline’s Chairman, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, for his continuous support throughout the rigorous audit process. “We are grateful to our chairman for believing in our capabilities and supporting the meticulous efforts required for this achievement,” Achurefe said. Reflecting on Air Peace’s journey, he noted that the airline first earned its place on the IOSA registry in 2016, only two years after launching operations. Since then, it has consistently met the stringent standards to maintain this prestigious recognition. “I am elated that we did not disappoint, as the process managers involved in the audit demonstrated exceptional expertise and dedication,” he added.
Dr. Samson Fatokun, Area Manager for West and Central Africa at IATA, commended Air Peace for its remarkable accomplishments within just a decade of operations. He emphasized that this achievement is no accident. “Air Peace’s presence on the IOSA registry is a testament to its unwavering dedication to safety, operational excellence, and professionalism. This milestone is not just a victory for the airline but a pride for Nigeria. It highlights that local carriers can operate at the highest international safety levels,” Dr. Fatokun stated.
Receiving the certificate, Dr. Allen Onyema, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, expressed profound appreciation to the management team whose tireless efforts led to this accomplishment. “Today marks another significant milestone for our young and ambitious airline,” Dr. Onyema remarked. He emphasized that the certification is a testament to the hard work and commitment of Air Peace’s Board and Management in ensuring safety standards and a just organizational culture. “This sixth IOSA certification is a testament to our commitment to global safety standards. It affirms that we are on the right track and provides our passengers with the confidence that their safety remains our top priority. I extend my heartfelt thanks to our management team and staff who have gone above and beyond to make this possible,” he said.
Dr. Onyema also took the opportunity to acknowledge the progressive steps taken by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Hon. Festus Keyamo, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which are transforming the aviation sector. “Under the guidance of Minister Keyamo, Nigeria’s signing of the Cape Town Convention has opened new opportunities for the aviation industry.
This move will enhance the capacity of local airlines, reduce operational costs, and ultimately lead to more competitive airfares. I also appreciate IATA for its unwavering support for the industry and for ensuring that African airlines like Air Peace have a seat at the global table,” he added.
The ceremony, held at Air Peace’s corporate headquarters in Lagos, was attended by notable figures, including Dr. Samson Fatokun, Area Manager & Head of Account Management for West & Central Africa at IATA, and several top executives from Air Peace, including Director of Flight Operations, Captain Augustin Kamano; Head of Training, Captain Gerald Udaya; Safety Manager, Captain Godfrey Ogbogu; Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo; Cabin Services Manager, Ikwo Iyanam; Head of IT, James Bello; and Head of Sales and Business Development, Davids Odeyemi.
The achievement highlights Air Peace’s deeply ingrained safety culture, robust management systems, and continuous commitment to improvement. With this sixth IOSA certification, Air Peace sets a new benchmark for safety in African aviation, inspiring other carriers across the continent to pursue similar excellence.