Air Peace clarifies status of Lagos–São Paulo route amid criticism
Nigeria’s leading airline, Air Peace, has denied allegations that it colluded with the federal government to mislead Nigerians regarding the planned direct flight between Lagos and São Paulo, Brazil.
The claims arose after some Nigerians residing in Brazil criticised both the airline and the government, saying a promised service had yet to materialise despite a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries in August 2025.
Air Peace described the accusations as false and intended to tarnish the reputations of both the airline and the Nigerian government. Spokesperson Efe Osifo-Whiskey explained that the MoU represents a statement of intent, not a binding flight schedule, and that launching international flights involves multiple regulatory and operational approvals.
“These approvals include the Bilateral Air Services Agreement, Brazilian civil aviation clearance, slot allocations, safety certifications, insurance, and aircraft planning,” Osifo-Whiskey stated. “Until all requirements are completed, no responsible airline would sell tickets or announce a start date.”
The airline stressed that no Nigerian passengers were stranded, and no tickets were ever sold for the Lagos–São Paulo route. Air Peace currently operates four Boeing 777 aircraft, two of which are on long-haul London routes, while the other two remain available for future international operations.
Air Peace also dismissed suggestions that it has any influence over global airfare pricing, calling such claims baseless. The airline maintained that its ongoing preparations for the São Paulo route, which began last year, are being handled in close cooperation with relevant Nigerian and Brazilian authorities.
“International aviation is a complex business where safety and regulatory compliance are paramount,” the statement added. “It is unacceptable for anyone to attempt to damage a Nigerian business with misleading reports.”
The airline reaffirmed that it remains the only carrier in Nigeria and West Africa with the capability to operate transoceanic flights using its own wide-body aircraft.
