Air Peace Becomes First Nigerian Airline to Operate Direct Flight From Brazil to Lagos
Nigeria’s leading carrier, Air Peace, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Nigerian airline to operate a direct passenger flight from Brazil to Lagos.
The development follows the signing of a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Brazil during President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit to the South American nation.
Under the new agreement, Air Peace was designated to operate passenger services on the Lagos–São Paulo route, while Brazil’s LATAM Airlines will handle cargo operations between both countries. The pact is expected to significantly boost trade, tourism, and diplomatic ties between Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, and Brazil, the economic powerhouse of Latin America.
Air Peace Chairman, Allen Onyema, confirmed that commercial operations will begin between late November and early December 2025, starting with three weekly flights linking Lagos, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro. According to him, the airline has already conducted an inaugural test run on the route, with a Nigerian government delegation led by Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo boarding the first direct return flight from São Paulo to Lagos earlier this week.
Before now, passengers traveling between Nigeria and Brazil were compelled to transit through Europe or the Middle East, often enduring long layovers and higher costs. The new direct connection will reduce flight times and expenses, while also creating fresh opportunities for business, cultural exchange, and people-to-people interaction.
Industry observers see this as a breakthrough in Nigeria’s aviation sector, one that could reposition the country as a continental hub for intercontinental travel.
However, while many Nigerians have praised the initiative, some critics argue that affordability remains a concern, as economic hardship may put international flights beyond the reach of ordinary travelers.
Nevertheless, Air Peace’s feat underscores the growing importance of Nigeria–Brazil relations. For Abuja and Brasília, the direct air link is not only about aviation but also about strengthening economic, cultural, and historic ties between two nations with deep Afro-diaspora connections.
