Air Peace has announced a landmark $2 billion agreement with Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer for the acquisition of 21 new jets, alongside plans to build a state-of-the-art Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Lagos. The move positions Nigeria’s largest carrier as a key driver of regional aviation growth and global connectivity.
The Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, made the announcement on Wednesday following the inaugural Air Peace flight from Brazil to Lagos. The fleet expansion comprises five Embraer E-175 aircraft and 16 E-2 jets, with five already delivered to Nigeria.
“By September 17, we will lay the foundation for a modern maintenance hangar in Lagos,” Onyema said. “Embraer will provide technical support, and within 12 to 15 months, the facility will be operational. This development will reduce reliance on costly overseas maintenance, create skilled jobs, and place Nigeria among aviation hubs in Africa.”
The airline’s investments come on the heels of strengthened bilateral relations between Nigeria and Brazil. Onyema praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty during the agreements, describing the partnership as mutually beneficial.
“This is not a parasitic relationship. It is symbiotic and respects our sovereignty,” Onyema noted. “The Brazilians are prepared to open up their expertise for Nigeria’s use.”
Both President Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva endorsed Air Peace’s Nigeria-Brazil direct route, set to commence in the third quarter of 2025. Onyema hailed the support as historic, noting the potential for enhanced trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, highlighted the economic significance of the agreement:
“Brazil is the biggest economy in South America, and Nigeria is considered the biggest economy in Africa. So connecting these two economies is vital. Bilateral trade has declined from $10bn to $2bn over the past decade, and this connection is a key step in reversing that trend.”
Onyema also revealed discussions with Colombia’s Vice President scheduled for September, aimed at expanding connectivity across South America. He underscored the cultural bridge with Brazil, noting that over 100 million Brazilians share African heritage.
“What happened in Brazil was historic. Both presidents stood with Air Peace. This is a national achievement,” Onyema said. “Brazil is nine times bigger than Nigeria. Once they capture Nigeria, they capture Africa. That is why this partnership matters.”
In addition, Air Peace is in talks with Brazilian airlines for potential interline agreements that would further enhance passenger connectivity across both regions.
With the Embraer deal, the planned MRO facility, and the upcoming Nigeria-Brazil flights, Air Peace is cementing its role as a regional leader in aviation. Onyema expressed pride in building an airline that not only expands market opportunities but also contributes to national development.
“President Tinubu has supported Air Peace not through ethnic lines but as a Nigerian entrepreneur committed to national progress,” he said. “Our journey with Embraer and Brazil represents a new chapter for Nigeria’s aviation industry.”
