Allen Onyema praises President Tinubu for game-changing aviation reforms that cut airfares and revived Nigeria’s aviation industry

Allen Onyema praises President Tinubu for reshaping Nigeria’s aviation sector through decisive reforms that have lowered international airfares and restored confidence in the nation’s carriers.

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Speaking on ARISE News, the Air Peace Chairman and Chief Executive Officer lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering policy support, which paved the way for the airline’s historic Abuja–London Heathrow flight.

Onyema said the president’s intervention not only enabled the milestone but also brought ticket prices down from a staggering $13,000 to about $3,000.

He described the breakthrough as a turning point for Nigerian aviation and proof of what can be achieved when government and private enterprise work hand in hand.

According to Onyema, “President Tinubu did the right thing for this country. His intervention forced foreign airlines to reduce their ticket prices drastically. Prices have come down from $13,000 from Abuja to Heathrow; we’ve brought it down to $3,000.”

The landmark Abuja–London Heathrow flight, launched last Sunday, marks the first time any Nigerian airline will operate both the Lagos–London Gatwick and Abuja–London Heathrow routes simultaneously.

Onyema noted that the development has “saved Nigerians money and made flying affordable again,” adding that even British passengers have welcomed the new competition.

He revealed that Air Peace now operates 14 weekly flights between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, giving travellers more flexibility and better value. “Even if you don’t fly Air Peace, you can now fly other airlines at reduced fares,” he said.

Onyema credited Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for executing the president’s vision with precision.

He explained that under Tinubu’s leadership, Nigerian airlines have regained access to international leasing options for the first time in over 15 years — following the signing of the Cape Town Convention Practice Direction.

“The government has given Nigerian aviation a new lease of life,” Onyema said, applauding the removal of the 4% levy on imported aircraft parts. He stressed that the industry does not need financial handouts but a supportive, predictable policy environment.

However, he cautioned against bureaucratic hostility toward local businesses. “Destroying a company like Air Peace that employs over 10,000 Nigerians harms the nation,” he warned. “When people lose jobs, insecurity rises.”

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Reaffirming Air Peace’s national commitment, Onyema concluded, “Air Peace is not about Allen Onyema — it’s about Nigeria. Every time we fly our flag in London, we show what Nigerians can achieve when government and the private sector work together.”