Air Peace Begins Construction of N32bn Aircraft Maintenance Facility at Lagos Airport

Nigeria’s largest carrier, Air Peace, has commenced the construction of a N32 billion Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in partnership with Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer.

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, said the foundation stone would be laid on September 17, with the project expected to be completed within 12 to 15 months. He noted that the facility would drastically cut the costs and delays associated with sending aircraft abroad for mandatory checks.

Onyema explained that the MRO centre would be capable of handling both single-aisle and dual-aisle aircraft, adding that it would also create jobs for Nigerian engineers and technicians. “This facility will not only serve Air Peace but also other airlines in Nigeria and across Africa,” he said.

Under the agreement, Embraer will provide technical support, while local personnel will be trained to manage operations and ensure international maintenance standards are met.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a game-changer for the sector. He said the facility would position Nigeria as a regional hub for aircraft maintenance and attract foreign carriers seeking reliable services within West and Central Africa.

Industry analysts say the project, coming on the heels of Nigeria’s Bilateral Air Services Agreement with Brazil, marks a strategic step in boosting local capacity and reducing capital flight in the aviation sector.

By Oshuniran Sheriff Ola