In a remarkable development for Nigeria’s aviation industry, Air Peace Chairman and CEO, Allen Onyema, has revealed how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies helped the airline reduce its Abuja–London flight fares from as high as $13,000 to just $3,000. Onyema described this achievement as a direct result of the Federal Government’s supportive aviation reforms, which have created a fairer and more competitive environment for indigenous airlines.
According to Onyema, before Air Peace launched its direct Nigeria–UK route, ticket prices were exorbitant due to limited competition and monopolistic practices by foreign airlines. However, with Air Peace’s entry into the market—and with the government’s backing through key policy interventions—fares dropped dramatically. “President Tinubu did the right thing,” Onyema said. “His intervention forced international carriers to cut their prices drastically, from $13,000 to as low as $3,000.”
Several major policy changes made this possible. First, the Tinubu administration strengthened bilateral air service agreements, ensuring that Nigerian airlines enjoyed reciprocal rights on international routes. This move broke long-standing barriers that had prevented local carriers from competing fairly. Second, the government restored access to aircraft dry leasing, allowing Nigerian airlines to lease planes more easily and operate efficiently without the huge financial burden of outright aircraft purchase. In addition, certain taxes and import levies—such as the 4% FOB levy on aircraft parts—were removed, reducing operating costs for airlines like Air Peace.
The benefits of these reforms are far-reaching. The reduction in airfare has made international travel far more affordable for Nigerians, opening doors for business trips, family visits, tourism, and cultural exchange. It also strengthens indigenous airlines, ensuring that a greater share of aviation revenue stays within the country. Moreover, the presence of a strong Nigerian competitor has pressured foreign carriers to review their pricing strategies, leading to a more balanced market. By easing the cost burden on travelers, these changes also help reduce foreign exchange pressures, since fewer people need to purchase expensive tickets priced in dollars.
Despite these gains, Onyema warned that sustainability remains key. While lower fares are good for passengers, airlines must still operate safely and profitably. He also cautioned that some foreign airlines might engage in predatory pricing—artificially lowering fares to drive Nigerian carriers out of business, only to raise prices again once competition weakens. To prevent this, he urged continued government oversight and consistent aviation policies that protect fair competition.
Looking forward, Onyema expressed optimism that the collaboration between the public and private sectors can serve as a model for other industries in Nigeria. The success of Air Peace on the London route, he said, proves that when the government creates the right policies, Nigerian companies can compete on the global stage. “Air Peace is not about Allen Onyema—it’s about Nigeria,” he emphasized. “Every time our aircraft flies the Nigerian flag, we show what this country can achieve when the government and private sector work together.”
In conclusion, the dramatic drop in airfare from $13,000 to $3,000 stands as a powerful symbol of progress in Nigeria’s aviation landscape. It demonstrates how effective leadership, policy reform, and entrepreneurial vision can deliver real economic benefits for ordinary citizens. If sustained, this could mark the beginning of a new era—one in which Nigerian airlines not only compete globally but also redefine the standards of affordability and excellence in African aviation.
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