Air Peace Limited, the largest airline in West and Central Africa, has achieved a remarkable milestone by securing its sixth consecutive International Air Transport Association Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification. This accomplishment reinforces Air Peace’s steadfast commitment to global safety standards and solidifies its position as a leader in the aviation industry.
The presentation ceremony, held at the airline’s corporate headquarters in Lagos, was a moment of pride for Air Peace. The Head of Quality, Engineer Patrick Achurefe, expressed profound gratitude to the airline’s Chairman, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, for his unwavering support throughout the rigorous audit process. Achurefe highlighted the journey that began in 2016 when Air Peace first earned its IOSA certification, just two years after commencing operations. Since then, the airline has consistently met the stringent standards required to maintain its place on the IOSA registry, achieving certifications every subsequent year.
“I am elated that we did not disappoint,” Achurefe remarked, commending the exceptional expertise and dedication of the team involved in the audit.
Dr. Samson Fatokun, IATA’s Area Manager for West and Central Africa, praised Air Peace for its dedication to safety and operational excellence, describing the airline as a source of national pride for Nigeria. “Air Peace’s presence on the IOSA registry is a testament to its unwavering commitment to safety, professionalism, and global standards. This milestone is not just a victory for the airline but a pride for Nigeria, proving that local carriers can operate at the highest international safety levels,” Fatokun noted.
Receiving the certificate on behalf of the airline, Dr. Allen Onyema expressed gratitude to the management team and staff, whose tireless efforts made the achievement possible. “This sixth IOSA certification is a testament to our commitment to global safety standards and affirms that we are on the right track. It provides our passengers with the confidence that their safety remains our top priority,” Onyema stated.
Onyema also commended the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Hon. Festus Keyamo, for implementing progressive policies that are transforming the country’s aviation sector. He specifically acknowledged the impact of Nigeria’s signing of the Cape Town Convention, a move that has opened new opportunities for the industry, reduced operational costs for local airlines, and promised more competitive airfares.
IATA’s continued support for African airlines was also recognized, with Onyema emphasizing the importance of giving African carriers a prominent voice on the global stage.
The event was attended by key figures from Air Peace, including Director of Flight Operations Captain Augustin Kamano, Head of Training Captain Gerald Udaya, Safety Manager Captain Godfrey Ogbogu, and Head of Corporate Communications Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, among others.
This latest certification is more than an accolade; it is a reflection of Air Peace’s robust safety culture, commitment to operational excellence, and drive for continuous improvement. By consistently exceeding international safety standards, Air Peace sets a benchmark for aviation in Africa, standing as a trusted airline for millions of passengers and a beacon of national pride for Nigeria.