Nigeria’s flag carrier, Air Peace, is set to commence direct flights from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport on October 26, 2025, marking a major milestone in the nation’s international aviation relations.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the development on Sunday in Abuja through a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood.
According to the minister, the achievement comes after months of firm diplomatic negotiations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, aimed at enforcing fairness in the implementation of existing international air service agreements.
Keyamo disclosed that the Ministry had, in a letter dated August 1, 2024, addressed to the UK Secretary of State for Transport, Rt. Hon. Louise Haigh, demanded immediate allocation of Heathrow landing slots for Air Peace. He warned that failure to comply would result in reciprocal action against British carriers such as British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, affecting their access to Nigeria’s Lagos and Abuja airports.
“This is not just a win for Air Peace but a significant diplomatic triumph for Nigeria,” Keyamo stated. “It sends a strong message that we are committed to enforcing our bilateral agreements and protecting the interests of indigenous carriers.”
He added that the breakthrough reinforces the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes creating a supportive environment for Nigerian businesses to compete on the global stage.
Air Peace made headlines in March 2024 by launching its inaugural direct flight from Lagos to London Gatwick, breaking into the highly competitive UK aviation market. With the newly secured Heathrow slots at one of the world’s busiest and most prestigious airports, the airline is set to expand its international reach and improve connectivity options for Nigerian travelers.
“This development marks a new chapter in Nigeria-UK aviation relations and sets a precedent for stronger enforcement of bilateral agreements to benefit national carriers,” Keyamo noted.
The minister further emphasized that the move would enhance traveler convenience and affordability, while contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth through increased tourism, business travel, and bilateral trade.
