Air Peace has launched a historic N32 billion Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, a move expected to create more than 50,000 direct and indirect jobs and transform Nigeria into a major aviation hub in Africa.
Onyema Hails Milestone for Nigerian Aviation
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, Air Peace Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, expressed excitement over the long-awaited project. He revealed that the airline acquired the 34,000-square-metre land eight years ago in anticipation of the MRO facility.
According to Onyema, the facility will not only service Air Peace aircraft but also aircraft belonging to other domestic and international airlines, reducing capital flight and saving billions of naira spent abroad on aircraft maintenance.
Ending Dependence on Foreign MRO Facilities
Onyema emphasized that Nigerian airlines often struggle to secure maintenance slots overseas, with many forced to rely on South Africa. With the new facility, he said Nigeria would finally reverse the trend, becoming a preferred destination for maintenance by both local and foreign airlines.
“Last year alone, Nigerian airlines spent over N180 billion on overseas maintenance. This facility will retain that capital within the country and attract foreign airlines, including those from Europe and the Americas,” Onyema said.
Government Support and Foreign Partnerships
Onyema praised President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), for providing an enabling environment that has improved the ease of doing business in aviation.
He also revealed a strategic partnership with Embraer of Brazil, which will allow Embraer aircraft worldwide to be serviced in Nigeria. The MRO will also cater for Boeing, Airbus, and private jets, ensuring comprehensive coverage for different aircraft models.
Job Creation and Skill Development
The Air Peace boss stressed that the project would create over 50,000 jobs, including technical roles for engineers, mechanics, and specialized staff. The facility will also feature shops dedicated to brakes, wheels, and batteries, further expanding employment and skill-building opportunities.
Banking and Institutional Support
Several financial partners pledged their backing for the landmark project:
- Bank of Industry (BOI) Executive Director, Mrs. Ifeoma Uzokpala, described the project as a boost for sustainable employment and foreign exchange inflows.
- Fidelity Bank’s Executive Director, Mr. Abolore Solebo, said the bank had established a dedicated aviation desk to support Air Peace and promised continued partnership.
- Representatives of Zenith Bank and other financial institutions also expressed support.
Technical Details of the Facility
According to Mr. Victor Ebong, representing MO and A Contractors, the site spans 32,000 square metres and will include:
- A 6,150 square metre clear-space hangar capable of accommodating a Boeing 777ER
- 5,000 square metres of apron space
- 2,800 square metres of storage
- 1,500 square metres of workshops
- A four-storey office building for administrative operations
A Turning Point for Nigerian Aviation
Industry experts say the Air Peace MRO project could be a game-changer for Nigeria’s aviation sector, cutting down on capital flight, attracting foreign investment, and positioning the country as a regional hub for aircraft maintenance.
With strong government backing, private sector partnerships, and global collaborations, the project is set to boost Nigeria’s aviation capacity and employment market over the next two years.
