By Ikechi Enwereji
Chairman of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema, has reaffirmed his integrity and transparency as Nigeria’s leading carrier, Air Peace, clarified issues surrounding the payment of ₦100 million for land designated for its Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility at the Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport, Umueri.
The clarification follows a recent media report quoting the Traditional Ruler of Umueri, Igwe Emeka, which suggested that Onyema had made false claims about the land transaction. The airline has, however, dismissed the report as baseless, unprovoked, and misleading.
In a statement issued on October 9, 2025, Air Peace stated that its engagement for the MRO project was conducted solely with the Anambra State Government, not with any community or group. The airline confirmed that the payment for the land was made directly to the state government, which subsequently issued an official receipt dated August 26, 2021, for the ₦100 million transaction.
“A Certificate of Occupancy covering the same parcel of land was issued on September 14, 2021, completing the lawful process of allocation and ownership,” the statement read.
The airline further clarified that at no point did Dr. Onyema or Air Peace accuse the Umueri community of misconduct or allege that the community received payment for the land. “The Igwe’s media release is entirely misplaced and without basis,” the statement added.
Air Peace emphasised that its Chairman’s record of integrity and service speaks for itself.
“Dr. Allen Onyema does not lie about anything. His personal and professional integrity is evident in his transparent record of service to Nigeria and his unwavering commitment to national development. Any publication suggesting otherwise is false, malicious, and defamatory,” the airline said.
Beyond the controversy, the airline reaffirmed its commitment to developing the MRO facility, a landmark project that will boost Nigeria’s aviation capacity, reduce dependence on overseas maintenance, and create employment opportunities.
Industry experts have long highlighted the potential of the Air Peace MRO to position Nigeria as a regional hub for aircraft maintenance in West and Central Africa, saving local airlines millions in annual foreign exchange costs.
The statement concluded that Air Peace remains focused on its mission to “drive positive change, empower Nigerians, and promote excellence in aviation,” while disregarding attempts to distract from its broader national objectives.
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