Nigeria’s leading private carrier, Air Peace, is poised to commence direct commercial flights between Lagos and São Paulo, Brazil, following a strategic aviation agreement secured during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent diplomatic visit to the South American nation. The development marks a significant boost for Nigeria’s international aviation footprint and opens a new chapter in Nigeria–Brazil bilateral relations.
The agreement, which forms part of broader trade and diplomatic discussions held between Nigerian and Brazilian officials, paves the way for stronger air connectivity between West Africa and South America, two regions with longstanding historical and cultural ties. Sources familiar with the arrangement confirmed that both governments have finalized preliminary frameworks that will enable Air Peace to operate scheduled passenger and possibly cargo services on the intercontinental route.
With this move, Air Peace becomes the first Nigerian airline to establish a direct link between Nigeria and Brazil, a milestone that aligns with President Tinubu’s renewed push to expand Nigeria’s economic and diplomatic presence across Latin America. Analysts view the Lagos–São Paulo corridor as a viable route, not just for trade and tourism, but also for facilitating movement among the Nigerian diaspora communities in Brazil, many of whom trace their ancestry to West Africa.
Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has consistently advocated for the expansion of Nigerian airlines beyond traditional regional routes, citing the need to break the dominance of foreign carriers in long-haul travel to and from Africa. The proposed Lagos–São Paulo flights, according to aviation experts, could significantly reduce travel time and cost for passengers who previously relied on lengthy transits through Europe or the Middle East.
Industry stakeholders have praised the initiative as a timely intervention that will further liberalize air travel for Nigerians and enhance bilateral relations with Brazil, a key player in the BRICS economic bloc. The service is also expected to encourage cross-border business, cultural exchange, and investment, particularly in agriculture, energy, and technology — sectors identified during Tinubu’s meetings with Brazilian counterparts.
While the official launch date is yet to be disclosed, preparations are reportedly at an advanced stage, with regulatory approvals, route logistics, and partnership agreements currently being finalized. The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has expressed full support for the project, describing it as a bold step towards making Nigeria a central aviation hub for Africa.
As anticipation builds, the Air Peace Lagos–São Paulo route is set to become a flagship transcontinental service that reflects Nigeria’s growing ambition in global aviation and international diplomacy.
