Connect with us

News and Report

Air Peace Secures Sixth IOSA Certification, Sets New Benchmark for Safety in African Aviation

Published

on

With an unwavering focus on raising the bar in operational safety and excellence, West and Central Africa’s largest airline, Air Peace Limited, has secured its sixth consecutive International Air Transport Association Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) Certification. This milestone underscores Air Peace’s commitment to maintaining the highest global safety standards in aviation, cementing its position as a leader in the industry.
Welcoming guests to the presentation ceremony, Head of Quality, Air Peace Limited Engineer Patrick Achurefe, thanked the airline’s Chairman, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, for his unwavering support throughout the rigorous audit process. “We are grateful to our chairman for believing in our capabilities and supporting the meticulous efforts required for this achievement”. He noted that Air Peace first earned its place on the IOSA registry in 2016, just two years after commencing operations. Since then, Air Peace has consistently met the stringent standards required to maintain this global recognition, achieving certifications in the years that followed. “I am elated that we did not disappoint, as the process managers involved in the audit demonstrated exceptional expertise and dedication”, he added.
Speaking at the event, Area Manager, West and Central Africa, IATA, Dr. Samson Fatokun commended Air Peace for being the pride of Nigeria. He noted the airline’s remarkable achievements in just a decade of its operations, insisting that it is not a mere fluke. “Air Peace’s presence on the IOSA registry is a testament to its unwavering dedication to safety, operational excellence, and professionalism. This milestone is not just a victory for the airline but a pride for Nigeria. It highlights that local carriers can operate at the highest international safety levels.”
While receiving the certificate, Chairman/CEO, Air Peace Limited, Dr. Allen Onyema expressed gratitude to the airline’s management team, who worked tirelessly to achieve this feat. “Today marks another significant milestone for our young and ambitious airline,” he said. He noted that the certification is an attestation to the hard work and dogged determination of the Board and Management of Air Peace in ensuring safety standards and just culture in the organization.
“This sixth IOSA certification is a testament to our commitment to global safety standards. It affirms that we are on the right track and provides our passengers with the confidence that their safety remains our top priority. I extend my heartfelt thanks to our management team and staff who have gone above and beyond to make this possible”, Dr. Onyema said.
Dr. Onyema also praised Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Hon. Festus Keyamo and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for implementing progressive policies that are transforming the aviation sector. “Under the guidance of Minister Keyamo, Nigeria’s signing of the Cape Town Convention has opened new opportunities for the aviation industry. This move will enhance the capacity of local airlines, reduce operational costs, and ultimately lead to more competitive airfares. I also appreciate IATA for its unwavering support for the industry and for ensuring that African airlines like Air Peace have a seat at the global table,” Onyema added.
Present at the ceremony at the airline’s corporate headquarters in Lagos were IATA’s Area Manager & Head of Account Management for West & Central Africa, Dr. Samson Fatokun, Air Peace’s top executives, including Director of Flight Operations, Captain Augustin Kamano; Head of Training, Captain Gerald Udaya; Safety Manager,  Captain Godfrey Ogbogu; Head, Corporate Communications, Dr Ejike Ndiulo; Cabin Services Manager, Ikwo Iyanam, Head of IT, James Bello, and Head of Sales and Business Development, Davids Odeyemi.
This sixth IOSA certification is a major achievement for Air Peace, reflecting its deep-rooted safety culture, robust management systems, and commitment to continuous improvement. It sets a new benchmark for safety in African aviation and inspires other carriers across the continent to strive for similar excellence.
By consistently meeting and exceeding international safety standards, Air Peace reinforces its position as a leading voice in African aviation, a source of pride for Nigeria, and a trusted airline for millions of passengers globally.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

News and Report

FG assumes full control of Keystone Bank

Published

on

By

Keystone Bank has confirmed that it is now fully owned by the Federal Government of Nigeria, stating that the takeover will enhance its stability and facilitate a smooth recapitalisation process.

The bank disclosed this in a statement on its Instagram page on Tuesday evening, following a ruling by the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja.

The court ordered the forfeiture of shares previously held by the bank’s former shareholders, effectively transferring ownership to the Federal Government.

“Keystone Bank Limited wishes to clarify the media report on a judgment by the Lagos State Special Offences Court, sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, regarding the status of the former shareholders of the bank: Sigma Golf Nigeria Limited and Alhaji Umaru H. Modibbo,” the statement read.

“At the court sitting today, February 11, 2025, the court ordered the forfeiture of the bank’s shares previously held by these shareholders in favour of the Federal Government of Nigeria, ” it said.

The bank described the development as a significant milestone, reinforcing its stability and positioning it for long-term growth.

“With this clarity, we are well-positioned for sustained growth, stronger partnerships, and enhanced profitability. Keystone Bank continues to strengthen its balance sheet while delivering exceptional value to its teeming stakeholders,” it stated.

The bank also reassured customers of its financial health and regulatory compliance.

“We assure our customers that the bank remains safe, healthy, strong, and resilient,” it added.

Keystone Bank was among the three banks whose boards and management were dissolved by the Central Bank of Nigeria on 10 January 2024, leading to the appointment of new leadership.

Continue Reading

News and Report

Court orders forfeiture of N6.3bn Keystone Bank shares, as ex-AMCON boss’ co-defendant pleads guilty

Published

on

By

The Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja has ordered the forfeiture of 6.3 billion units of ordinary shares in Keystone Bank Limited, valued at N1 each, to the federal government.

The ruling, delivered by trial judge Rahman Oshodi was part of a plea bargain agreement between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Sigma Golf Nigeria Limited, following the company’s guilty plea through its chairman, Umaru Modibbo.

The court also convicted and wound up Sigma Golf Nigeria Limited, forfeiting its 6.25 billion units of Keystone Bank shares to the federal government.

Mr Modibbo, the founder of Sigma Pensions Nigeria Ltd, was arraigned alongside former Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) Managing Director Ahmed Kuru on counts of conspiracy, stealing, and illegal property transfer.

EFCC said in a statement by its spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, on Tuesday, that N20 billion in AMCON funds was illicitly channelled through Heritage Bank to finance Sigma Golf Nigeria Ltd’s acquisition of Keystone Bank.

While Mr Kuru pleaded not guilty, Sigma Golf Nigeria Ltd admitted guilt, leading to the company’s conviction and liquidation.

Following the guilty plea, EFCC’s lead prosecutor, Rotimi Oyedepo, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), urged the court to adopt the plea bargain terms as judgement.

Mr Oshodi, who was satisfied that the agreement was voluntary and served justice, upheld it.

Bail
In another development, the court then considered Mr Kuru’s bail application, noting that the offence carries a seven-year jail term but is bailable.

Mr Kuru’s lawyer, Olasupo Shasore, also a SAN, applied for bail, arguing that his client should be granted bail on self-recognition.

The EFCC did not oppose the request but insisted on stringent conditions to ensure Mr Kuru’s court attendance.

Mr Oshodi granted him bail in the sum of N50 million with two sureties who must be gainfully employed, swear to an affidavit of means, and show evidence of tax payment for the last three years.

The judge also ordered the EFCC to notify the Nigeria Immigration Service of Mr Kuru’s travel restrictions and temporarily released him to his lawyer pending the perfection of his bail conditions.

The case was adjourned till 7 March, 16 and 17 April for continuation of trial.

Background
Mr Kuru has been under EFCC investigation for alleged financial crimes.

In December, the Ikeja Special Offences Court issued an arrest warrant after he failed to appear for trial in a separate case involving the alleged fraudulent conversion of N76 billion and $31.5 million belonging to Arik Air.

A fresh six-count charge filed by the EFCC alleges that Mr Kuru and his co-defendants—Modibbo, Sigma Golf Nigeria Ltd, and the fugitive Ifie Sekibo—conspired to steal N20 billion from AMCON for the acquisition of Keystone Bank.

The charges, signed by EFCC prosecutors Messrs Oyedepo, Abba Mohammad (SAN), Bilkisu Buhari-Bala, and six others, include stealing N20 billion allegedly diverted through Heritage Bank.

The indictment also alleged Illegal transfer of N10 billion to conceal its source, and fraudulently acquiring Keystone Bank with public funds.

He was charged with conspiracy to steal and money laundering under Sections 411, 280, and 287 of Lagos State’s Criminal Law (2011 & 2015).

If convicted, Mr Kuru faces up to seven years in prison under Lagos State’s criminal laws.

He pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

Continue Reading

News and Report

How Strategic Interline Agreement Between Air Peace and Emirates will Enhance Passenger Connectivity 

Published

on

By

Air Peace, Nigeria’s leading airline and West Africa’s largest carrier, has said that the landmark interline agreement with Emirates, one of the world’s premier airlines will enhance travel options and connectivity for Air Peace customers, providing seamless access to international destinations via Dubai while increasing accessibility to key cities within Nigeria.

Through this interline agreement, Air Peace customers flying from Dubai to Lagos on Emirates can now conveniently connect to multiple domestic destinations, including Asaba, Akure, Benin City, Calabar, Enugu, Ilorin, Kaduna, and Owerri. Business and corporate travelers will also benefit from streamlined access to major economic hubs such as Abuja, Kano, Uyo, Port Harcourt, and Warri, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a key player in Africa’s aviation industry.

The partnership expands Air Peace’s global reach, allowing its customers to seamlessly book multi-destination flights under a single ticketing system. Passengers will enjoy hassle-free transfers, improved baggage handling, and enhanced travel convenience, reinforcing Air Peace’s commitment to delivering top-tier service.

Speaking on the agreement, Chief Operating Officer, Air Peace Limited, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Olajide said, “We are excited about this strategic interline partnership between Air Peace and Emirates, which is a significant step towards enhancing global connectivity for Nigerian travelers. It aligns with our mission to provide seamless, world-class travel experiences while expanding our route network and international reach”.

She explained that the collaboration not only expands Air Peace’s international reach but also offers Nigerians arriving from Dubai seamless access to key domestic destinations, including Asaba, Akure, Benin City, Calabar, Enugu, Ilorin, Kaduna, and Owerri. “By improving ease of travel, we are boosting business, tourism, and trade opportunities, further strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and the UAE”. The Air Peace COO insists that the partnership further reinforces Nigeria’s aviation sector by enhancing connectivity, efficiency and positioning the country as a critical hub for regional and global travel. “At Air Peace, we remain committed to providing greater connectivity, convenience, and world-class service for our passengers”.

Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Emirates, Adnan Kazim, said, “Emirates is a steadfast partner of Nigeria’s tourism, trade and aviation sectors. This partnership with Air Peace is the next step on this journey, bolstering our connectivity and introducing more travel options for corporate leisure, and travellers visiting friends and family to and from Nigeria. We look forward to deepening our strategic partnership with Air Peace in the future to enhance the benefits for our mutual customers.”

The interline agreement is set to bolster Nigeria’s aviation sector by enhancing airport operations and increasing passenger traffic. Strengthening Lagos as a major hub, the agreement supports the broader goal of elevating the country’s aviation infrastructure, fostering competition, and improving overall service quality.

The enhanced connectivity facilitated by this partnership will support Nigeria’s economy by making travel easier for business professionals, investors, and tourists. Increased accessibility to international markets will stimulate trade, attract foreign investment, and create new opportunities for job growth, reinforcing Nigeria’s status as a leading economic force in Africa.

Air Peace remains committed to broadening its network and elevating service quality, ensuring that customers enjoy greater convenience, efficiency, and flexibility when traveling. This interline agreement is a significant step forward in achieving those objectives.

Customers can book their travel now on flyairpeace.com

 

 

Continue Reading

Trending