Indeed, if one takes a cursory look at his profile, many would agree that Allen Ifechukwu Onyema is one entrepreneur blessed with a clear vision. For the Chairman of Air Peace, the real journey on the boulevard of fame and mega success began nearly a decade ago. Though, Onyema wasn’t an unknown entity before then as he has already tasted success from his first love, law. However at that time, the amiable aviation mogul was prodded by the desire to leave his imprints on the sands of time. This would later buoy him up to conceptualize the idea of a very functional and professional airline; Air Peace.
Spotlight learnt that when the indigenous airline was birthed, little did Onyema know that in no time, it would redefine the aviation industry. But before his eyes, the company he set up not necessarily for profit but to provide jobs has grown to become one of the most successful airlines in Africa. Onyema, in eight years, has taken the airline to many countries across the world and refused to be drawn back by naysayers. In fact, without lacing our word with purple prose, the Mbosi, Anambra State-native has surpassed the expectations of many who had earlier thought nothing good could ever come from Nigeria. The trained lawyer has continued to make the country proud. In spite of his rising profile, the influential businessman has refused to rest on his oars. He hasn’t relaxed in his comfort zone, rather hitting the sky, ready to conquer his world and unroll his fascinating story waiting to be fully told. Yet, many would not miss any opportunity to celebrate this gregarious gentleman as witnessed on Tuesday, March 28, when he clocked 59. Although he didn’t roll out the drums in celebration of the day —he’s said to be planning a huge celebration next year when he will be 60— his families, friends, close associates as well as staffers made the day a memorable one for him as he was greeted with an avalanche of goodwill, adulation and encomium.