Air Peace Limited strengthened its position in African aviation by earning two accolades at the inaugural Nigeria International Air Show, held from December 2–4, 2025, at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The airline received the Airline of the Year Award, presented by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in recognition of its rapid growth and transformative contributions to Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Since its launch in 2014, Air Peace has evolved from a modest fleet of Dornier 328s and Boeing 737s into one of Africa’s leading carriers, now operating widebody Boeing 777s, modern Embraer 195 E2 jets, and other aircraft that support its growth and enhanced service offerings.
The airline has also significantly expanded its network, including the landmark Lagos–London Gatwick route launched in 2024.
In 2025, Air Peace further cemented its international footprint by inaugurating the first direct Abuja–London Heathrow flight by a Nigerian airline, a milestone widely hailed as evidence of its rising global competitiveness.
Alongside the airline’s recognition, Chairman and CEO Dr. Allen Onyema was honored with the Aviation Executive of the Year Award, presented by Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofamata, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
The award acknowledges Onyema’s visionary leadership in elevating Air Peace to become the largest privately owned airline in West and Central Africa.
These accomplishments highlighted the judges’ decision to recognize Air Peace for transforming Nigeria’s aviation landscape, enhancing connectivity, and “restoring national pride in the capabilities of a local carrier.”
The award reinforces Air Peace’s position as a leading African airline and solidifies Captain Allen Onyema’s legacy as an aviation pioneer, proving that a Nigerian carrier can succeed on the global stage.

