Air Peace has marked a major milestone in Nigerian aviation with the successful operation of a direct flight between São Paulo and Lagos, carrying members of Nigeria’s official delegation alongside Brazilian private-sector leaders.
The achievement follows the signing of a landmark bilateral air services agreement in Brasília, witnessed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
On Wednesday, the Presidency’s official handle shared images of the signed accord and a video of Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo at the inaugural flight, describing the development as proof that “Nigerian carriers can compete on global routes, and that Nigeria’s partnerships deliver immediate, tangible results.”
Under the pact, two Nigerian airlines, Air Peace and Caverton will commence scheduled passenger and cargo operations on the Lagos–São Paulo route by the last quarter of 2025.
The demonstration flight signals Nigeria’s readiness to activate the corridor and highlights how private-sector initiatives can translate government agreements into real economic outcomes.
Minister Keyamo emphasized the significance of the new service, noting that a trip which once took nearly 20 hours through Europe or the Middle East would now be considerably shorter with direct connections operated by Air Peace.
He also disclosed that the airline has placed an order for 21 Embraer aircraft from Brazil, further cementing aviation and trade ties between both nations.
Air Peace Chairman and CEO, Allen Onyema, praised President Tinubu and government officials for enabling the breakthrough, stating: “The President has opened the door of the future for Nigeria. Instead of spending two days to reach Brazil, we now have direct access to South America’s largest economy.
Nigeria leads in Africa, Brazil leads in South America, we need each other, and this partnership will unlock immense opportunities.”
The Lagos–São Paulo route is expected to boost trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchange between Nigeria and Brazil.
It also aligns with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes building new markets, strengthening South–South partnerships, and expanding opportunities for Nigerian businesses and travellers.
