Air Peace to Launch Direct Ogun–London Flights as Gateway Airport Targets Global Aviation Hub Status

Nigeria’s leading carrier, Air Peace, has announced plans to commence direct international flights from the newly inaugurated Gateway International Airport to London this summer, marking a significant leap in the country’s aviation expansion.
The airline’s Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, disclosed the development after a joint inspection of the airport facilities with Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun. The visit followed the official commissioning of the airport by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Onyema confirmed that the airline would operate flights to both London Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airport, describing the move as a milestone not only for Ogun State but for Nigeria’s aviation sector at large.
He lauded the Gateway International Airport as one of the most modern facilities in Sub-Saharan Africa, noting its 4-kilometre runway capable of handling wide-body aircraft, including the Airbus A380. According to him, Air Peace will deploy its Boeing 777 fleet for the London route, ensuring long-haul efficiency and passenger comfort.
The airline chief also revealed that all necessary approvals had been secured from the Federal Ministry of Aviation, emphasizing that the airport should be seen as a national infrastructure asset rather than a state-owned project.
In his remarks, Governor Abiodun outlined an ambitious development plan around the airport, including the construction of an international conference and convention centre and a 550-room five-star hotel. He said these projects are designed to transform Ogun State into a strategic hub for global commerce, investment, and tourism.
The governor further disclosed that cargo operations have already commenced, with Allied Air leading initial activities, while Ethiopian Airlines and a yet-to-be-named European carrier are expected to begin services soon. He projected that no fewer than 50 cargo flights would operate through the airport between April and the end of the year.
Abiodun also announced the launch of Gateway Airlines, a state-backed carrier that has acquired two Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft to enhance connectivity between Ogun State, Abuja, and other major cities across the country.
With these developments, the governor expressed optimism that Gateway International Airport would soon emerge as Nigeria’s third busiest aviation hub, trailing only Lagos and Abuja, as the state positions itself at the forefront of aviation-driven economic growth.