by Chinelo Obogo
air Peace Limited has achieved a significant milestone by achieving International Air Transport Association (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification for the sixth consecutive year.
This achievement highlights the airline's dedication to maintaining the world's highest safety standards and further solidifies its leadership in the aviation industry.
Speaking at the ceremony, Air Peace's Head of Quality, Mr. Patrick Ashlev, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the airline's Chairman, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, for his continued support throughout the rigorous audit process. “I would like to thank the Chairman for believing in our abilities and supporting the meticulous efforts necessary to achieve this,” Ashulev said. Reflecting on Air Peace's history, he pointed out that the airline was first added to the IOSA register in 2016, just two years after it began operations. Since then, we have consistently met rigorous standards to maintain this prestigious reputation. “The process managers involved in the audit demonstrated exceptional expertise and dedication and we are satisfied that they did not disappoint,” he added.
Dr Samson Fatokun, IATA's Regional Manager for West and Central Africa, praised Air Peace's impressive achievements within just 10 years of operation. He emphasized that this achievement was not a coincidence. “Air Peace’s presence on the IOSA register is a testament to the airline’s unwavering dedication to safety, operational excellence and professionalism. This milestone is not only a victory for the airline, but a point of pride for Nigeria. This also highlights that local airlines can operate at the highest international safety level,” said Dr Fatokun.
Receiving the certificate, Dr. Allen Onyema, Air Peace Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, expressed his deep gratitude to the management team whose tireless efforts led to this achievement. “Today marks another important milestone for our young and ambitious airline,” said Dr. Onyema. He emphasized that this certification is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Air Peace's Board of Directors and management to ensure safety standards and a fair organizational culture. “This sixth IOSA certification is a testament to our commitment to global safety standards. It confirms that we are on the right track and reassures our passengers that safety remains our top priority. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our management team and staff who have passed away. We will continue to work harder to make this possible,” he said.
Dr. Onyema also took the opportunity to acknowledge the progressive steps of the Nigerian Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development. Festus Keyamo and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are transforming the aviation industry. “Nigeria’s signing of the Cape Town Convention under the leadership of Minister Keyamo has opened new opportunities for the aviation industry.
This move will strengthen the capabilities of local airlines, reduce operating costs, and ultimately lead to more competitive airfares. We are also grateful to IATA for their unwavering support of the industry and ensuring that African airlines like Air Peace have a seat at the world table,” he added.
The ceremony, which took place at Air Peace's headquarters in Lagos, was attended by prominent personalities including IATA's Area Manager and Account Management Officer for West and Central Africa, Dr. Samson Fatokun, and several members of Air Peace, including Air Peace's directors. Executives were present. Flight Operations, Captain Augustin Camano. Captain Gerald Udaya, Training Director; Safety Officer, Captain Godfrey Ogbogu. Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, Head of Corporate Communications; Mr. Ikwo Iyanam, Cabin Service Manager. Mr. James Bello, Head of IT Department. said Davids Odeyemi, Head of Sales and Business Development.
This achievement highlights Air Peace's deep-rooted safety culture, robust management system, and continuous commitment to improvement. With this sixth IOSA certification, Air Peace is setting a new standard for African aviation safety and inspiring other airlines across Africa to pursue similar excellence.
