National
How African Countries Put Hurdles Against Air Peace – Onyema
The Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has lamented the hostilities faced by Nigerian airlines in Africa, citing exorbitant airport charges and frustrating operations in other African countries.
Speaking at the 48th Annual General Meeting and exhibition of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) in Lagos, Onyema narrated how African countries have been frustrating Air Peace from operating seamlessly into their home countries.
Onyema exonerated Ghana from the aero-politics but stated that all other African countries where Air Peace operates have continued to use exorbitant airport charges to frustrate the airline. He noted that while African airlines operate flights into Nigeria without limitations, the reverse has been the case, with their home countries writing to Air Peace not to fly into their country.
Onyema cited instances where Air Peace was asked to pay $12,000 per landing and millions of euros in charges, with no explanation or response from the countries when questioned. He also mentioned a case where Air Peace was taken to a French court and judged to pay four million euros in charges.
Despite these challenges, Onyema stated that Air Peace has an advantage over other airlines, flying people from other states in Nigeria to London via Lagos airport, saving passengers over N200,000 in local destinations.
The representative of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Hassan Tai Ejibunu, emphasized the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in integrating and facilitating trade and investment among African countries. He noted that the theme of the AGM and exhibition, “Unlocking Africa’s Economic Potential: Travel and Tourism as Catalyst for Intra-Africa Business, Investment, and Trade,” aligns with the visionary thought of African leaders.
Susan Akporaiye, also speaking at the event, highlighted NANTA’s efforts in addressing the high fare pandemic out of Nigeria by reasoning with the government and stakeholders.
Send Us A Press Statement Advertise With Us Contact Us
And For More Nigerian News Visit GWG.NG