Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has confirmed that Nigeria has secured a slot for Abuja-London Heathrow direct flights.
The Minister also confirmed that following the approval, Air Peace will commence the Abuja-London Heathrow direct flights on October 26, 2025.
According to Keyamo, this development came after intense diplomatic negotiations talks with the United Kingdom (UK).
This was contained in a press statement issued on Sunday, June 22, 2025, by Keyamo’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Mr Tunde Moshood.
The minister, in the statement, also said that the breakthrough was the result of a letter from the ministry dated Aug. 1, 2024, to the UK Secretary of State for Transport, Rt. Hon. Louise Haigh.
In the correspondence, Keyamo demanded the immediate allocation of landing slots at Heathrow for Air Peace or risk reciprocal action.
The reciprocal action, he said, included a potential review of British Airways and Virgin Atlantic’s access to Lagos and Abuja airports.
He reiterated that Nigeria was only asserting its rights under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between both nations which guarantees reciprocal access and fair treatment for designated flag carriers.
The statement reads in part: “This is not just a win for Air Peace, but a significant diplomatic milestone for Nigeria.
“It sends a clear message that we are serious about enforcing the terms of our bilateral agreements and protecting the commercial interests of our indigenous carriers.”
The minister further added that with the move to Heathrow, one of the world’s busiest and most prestigious airports, Air Peace is expected to significantly expand its international footprint and provide Nigerian travellers with greater convenience and connectivity.
“This development marks a new chapter in Nigeria-UK aviation relations and sets a precedent for stronger enforcement of bilateral agreements to benefit national carriers,” Keyamo added.
