Air Peace Champions Sports Legends, Boosting Nigeria's Tourism Appeal

Air Peace, West Africa’s leading airline, recently hosted a moving Night of Tribute in Lagos to honour five Nigerian sports icons: Moses Effiong, Charles Bassey, Christian Chukwu, Obisia Nwakpa, and Peter Rufai. The event, held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), was orchestrated by football legend Dr. Segun Odegbami and attended by family, former teammates, sports figures, and dignitaries.

Air Peace Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, delivered a heartfelt tribute, praising the athletes as patriots who competed for national pride in an era of limited financial rewards. He shared personal anecdotes and expressed regret for missed opportunities to support them further during their lifetimes. Onyema also highlighted the 1976 Olympic team’s sacrifice, withdrawn from the Montreal Games due to apartheid, and lamented Nigeria’s past failures to adequately recognize its sporting heroes.

Onyema emphasized the importance of honouring these figures to inspire patriotism in younger generations. He lauded Dr. Odegbami’s advocacy for sports legends, calling him a champion of national memory. This Night of Tribute underscored Air Peace’s commitment to honouring those who elevated the nation through sports.

This event aligns with Air Peace’s broader Sports Diplomacy Ambassadors program, launched in 2022 to celebrate Nigeria’s sporting greats. The program began by honouring the 1980 AFCON-winning squad and the 1976 Olympic team, creating a Wall of Fame at the NIIA and Eko Hotel. Honorees receive lifetime, unlimited business-class flights on Air Peace, a testament to the airline’s dedication.

For African travel agents, this initiative presents a unique opportunity. By partnering with Air Peace, agents can tap into the airline’s commitment to national heritage and offer clients exclusive experiences that combine sports, culture, and travel. This collaboration can enhance Nigeria’s appeal as a sports tourism destination, attracting visitors interested in the country’s rich sporting history and creating new revenue streams for travel professionals.