Nigeria’s largest private airline, Air Peace, is set to expand its international operations with plans to begin direct flights from Gateway International Airport in Ogun State to London this summer.
The airline’s CEO, Allen Onyema, disclosed this during an inspection of the airport alongside Governor Dapo Abiodun, shortly after the facility was inaugurated by President Bola Tinubu.
According to Onyema, Air Peace will operate flights to both London Gatwick and Heathrow, describing the move as a major step forward for aviation development in Ogun State. He praised the airport’s infrastructure, noting that it meets global standards and ranks among the best-equipped in Sub-Saharan Africa.
He added that the airline is ready to utilise the facility fully, stressing that it is comparable—if not superior—to many airports in the Western world. Onyema confirmed that Air Peace plans to deploy its Boeing 777 aircraft for the London routes.
He also revealed that the Minister of Aviation has approved the airline’s operations from the airport, describing the project as one of national importance, not just a state initiative.
On his part, Governor Abiodun outlined broader plans to transform the airport into a major economic hub. These include the development of an international conference and convention centre, as well as a 550-room five-star hotel to boost business and tourism.
The governor noted that cargo operations have already commenced, with Allied Air currently active and Ethiopian Airlines expected to begin soon. Another European carrier is also reportedly preparing to launch cargo services.
Abiodun projected that about 50 cargo flights would operate through the airport between April and the end of the year.
He also announced the launch of Gateway Airlines, which has acquired two Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft to improve connectivity between Ogun State, Abuja, and other major cities across Nigeria.
With these developments, the governor expressed confidence that Gateway International Airport could soon become Nigeria’s third busiest aviation hub, after Lagos and Abuja.
