The Government of Barbados, with support from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), has officially welcomed Air Peace following the airline’s historic inaugural commercial flight from Lagos to Barbados on May 24, 2026.
The reception, marked by a high-level forum and media launch at the Indigo Hotel, brought together senior government officials, diplomats, tourism leaders, aviation stakeholders and members of the media, underscoring strong institutional backing for deeper Africa–Caribbean connectivity.
Top dignitaries at the event included Ian Gooding-Edghill, Minister of Tourism and International Transport; Shane Archer; David Commissiong; and Juliet Sutherland-Bynoe, alongside other diplomatic representatives and industry leaders.
The launch represents a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to strengthen commercial, tourism and cultural ties between Africa and the Caribbean through direct air links. Air Peace has already confirmed twice-monthly scheduled services between Lagos and Barbados, operating on the last two Mondays of each month.
In his remarks, Gooding-Edghill described the new route as “a landmark occasion” for Barbados, the Caribbean and Africa, noting that it symbolised years of deliberate efforts to deepen cross-regional relations.
“When Air Peace flies into Barbados, it carries the weight of a relationship both regions have long worked to build”, he said, adding that the service will position Barbados as a key gateway into the Caribbean.
He also assured the airline of the Barbadian government’s full support, emphasizing that efforts will be made through tourism agencies, trade bodies and diplomatic channels to stimulate demand and ensure the route’s long-term success.
Also speaking, Afreximbank’s Acting Chief Operating Officer, Okechukwu Ihejirika, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to initiatives that promote trade, investment and connectivity between Africa and the Caribbean, highlighting the importance of sustainable air transport links in advancing regional integration.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Air Peace Chief Commercial Officer, Nowel Ngala, described the launch as the culmination of years of collaboration aimed at bridging both regions through direct air travel.
“Today marks the end of a long journey to make this connection possible and the beginning of a new chapter that opens up opportunities for tourism, trade and travel”, he said.
Ngala also acknowledged the leadership of Air Peace Chairman and CEO, Allen Onyema, for driving the airline’s expansion beyond Africa, and reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to strengthening economic and cultural ties through sustained connectivity.
The event concluded with renewed commitments from both African and Caribbean stakeholders to deepen cooperation and explore further opportunities across tourism, trade, culture and aviation.