History was made at Heathrow Airport this week as West and Central Africa’s largest carrier, Air Peace, inaugurated its Abuja–London Heathrow service, marking the triumphant return of Nigeria’s national colours to one of the world’s most prestigious aviation hubs after more than a decade.
The vibrant ceremony, held at Terminal 3’s check-in area, was attended by top Nigerian and British dignitaries, including Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, senior UK officials, diplomats, aviation regulators, business leaders, and representatives of the Nigerian community in the UK. The launch drew praise as a defining milestone for Nigeria’s aviation industry, reflecting renewed confidence, strategic reform, and the resilience of indigenous enterprise.
In his welcome address, Mr. Ross Baker, Chief Customer Officer of Heathrow Airport, hailed the development as “a moment of pride and progress” for both nations.
“It is a real pleasure to welcome everyone here at Heathrow for this truly exciting milestone — the launch of Air Peace’s direct service between London and Abuja,” Baker said. “This is more than a new route; it represents the start of a stronger, more connected future between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.”
He commended Air Peace for its “strategic vision, resilience, and commitment to excellence,” describing the airline’s successful entry into Heathrow — one of the world’s most competitive gateways — as bold and historic.
“Abuja is a vibrant destination. Nearly 140,000 passengers travelled between the UK and Abuja last year alone, and this new service will make that connection even stronger,” he added.
Nigeria’s Flag Flies Again
Representing Air Peace, Ms. Nnenna Onyema, Executive Director of the airline, declared the moment “a powerful reaffirmation of Nigeria’s aviation resurgence.”
“For over a decade, no Nigerian flag carrier operated the London–Abuja route. Today, that silence is broken — our flag flies again,” she said to thunderous applause. “As we say back home, Naija no dey carry last. This launch is not just about a new route — it’s a statement that Nigeria is back, stronger and prouder.”
Onyema highlighted the airline’s journey from humble beginnings 11 years ago to its current status as a leading West African carrier operating a fleet of over 30 aircraft and expanding across continents.
“This operation goes beyond transportation — it is a national statement of confidence and resilience,” she added, extending gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for reforms that have strengthened the aviation sector and to Minister Keyamo for creating a level playing field for Nigerian airlines.
Keyamo: A Triumph for Nigerian Excellence
Delivering the keynote address, Minister Festus Keyamo lauded Air Peace’s achievement as a “defining chapter in Nigeria’s aviation story.”
“This route between Nigeria and the United Kingdom has existed for almost 90 years, and Air Peace’s entry into Heathrow adds a proud new chapter,” Keyamo stated. “This is not just a business success — it’s a matter of national pride.”
He described Air Peace’s feat as proof that Nigerian carriers can compete and excel globally when supported by sound policy and government backing.
“The mandate from Mr. President is clear — to support the growth and sustainability of indigenous entrepreneurs. Air Peace is the biggest player we have today, and it’s our duty to stand by them,” he added.
Keyamo credited the success to months of diplomatic negotiation between both nations that secured a fairer bilateral air service framework and ensured that Nigerian carriers gain equitable access to prime international routes.
Commitment to Excellence and Growth
In her remarks, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Olajide, Chief Operating Officer of Air Peace, described the new Abuja–Heathrow service as a dream fulfilled.
“When we began operations in 2014, we dreamed of building a world-class airline Nigerians could truly call their own. That dream has become reality. Today’s launch connects the heart of Abuja to the heart of London,” she said.
She praised the Federal Government, UK aviation authorities, and Air Peace’s dedicated team for their collective effort in achieving what many had considered impossible.
“This milestone shows what can be achieved when private enterprise, national leadership, and international cooperation align. Our commitment remains simple — to operate safely, reliably, and proudly under Nigeria’s flag,” Olajide said.
National Symbol of Progress
The Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, called the development “a triumph of Nigerian excellence.”
“Opening a route into one of the world’s busiest airports is no small feat. It reaffirms our nation’s capacity to meet global standards and compete effectively,” he said, applauding the Aviation Ministry’s five-point agenda for enabling such achievements.
New Era for Nigerian Aviation
With the Abuja–London Heathrow route now operational — following the Lagos–London Gatwick success — Air Peace becomes the first Nigerian airline to operate direct flights from both Abuja and Lagos to the United Kingdom.
This milestone, applauded by both Nigerian and UK stakeholders, not only restores Nigeria’s presence in global aviation but also symbolizes renewed confidence in the nation’s capacity to compete and thrive internationally.
As Ross Baker summed up: “Air Peace’s arrival at Heathrow isn’t just about air travel — it’s about connecting people, strengthening economies, and celebrating the enduring partnership between the UK and Nigeria.”
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