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Air Peace, ADINA Summit Partners to Strengthen African Trade and Diaspora Connections

Air Peace, Nigeria’s leading airline, recently solidified its commitment to fostering stronger ties between Africa and its global diaspora through its strategic partnership with the Africa Diaspora Investment Network Alliance (ADINA) Summit 2024. The event, held on December 27, 2024, at the prestigious Kempinski Gold Coast City Hotel in Accra, brought together a diverse audience of African Diaspora investors, business leaders, and global institutions to discuss and advance the continent’s economic potential.

Accra, a global hub for the African diaspora every December, provided the perfect setting for the ADINA Summit. The event facilitated conversations around trade, investment, and economic empowerment, positioning the diaspora as a significant force for Africa’s economic transformation.

In his address at the summit, Davids Odeyemi, Head of Sales and Business Development at Air Peace, emphasized the airline’s mission to connect Africa and its diaspora. He highlighted Air Peace’s extensive network, which offers seamless travel solutions for diasporans seeking to reconnect with their roots, explore their heritage, and invest in Africa’s burgeoning markets. Odeyemi also reaffirmed the airline’s role as a driver of intra-African trade, enhancing connectivity to enable the movement of goods, services, and people, thereby creating jobs and fostering economic growth.

Air Peace’s partnership with the ADINA Summit also aligns with its broader commitment to promoting tourism and showcasing Africa’s rich cultural heritage. The airline’s continuous investment in a modern fleet underscores its determination to provide a world-class travel experience, reinforcing its position as a catalyst for African development.

The summit underscored the critical role of diaspora remittances in bolstering local economies, with discussions focusing on the potential of the diaspora to surpass traditional foreign direct investments. Air Peace, through this partnership, gained access to a high-level network of African and diaspora leaders, creating opportunities to connect with talent, clients, and collaborators while amplifying its branding and marketing initiatives, by actively participating in the ADINA Summit 2024, Air Peace reaffirmed its dedication to shaping the continent’s future. This partnership exemplifies the airline’s leadership in African aviation and its unwavering commitment to driving progress across the continent. Together with ADINA, Air Peace is helping to unlock Africa’s economic potential and strengthen its global connections.

AVIATION MINISTRY REFUTES UNSUBSTANTIATED RUMOUR REGARDING MOVEMENT OF FIRE-FIGHTING SIMULATOR FROM ZARIA

The attention of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has been drawn to a video making the rounds of a motion moved on the floor of the House of Representatives by a Honourable member making reference to an unsubstantiated plan by the Ministry to move a fire-fighting simulator out of the Nigerian College of Technology, Zaria to Lagos State and urging the House to restrain the move.

The rumour is nothing but pure mischief by agents of destabilisation and is totally untrue. Whist we acknowledge the patriotism of the House entertaining the Motion, we think it was totally unnecessary since the Speaker already had a private audience with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development few days ago when this issue came up and the Minister assured Mr. Speaker that there was NO IOTA of truth in the rumour. The Minister further put a call to the Rector of the school who re-assured Mr. Speaker that it was an unfounded rumour and purely a mischief. So, why the motion?

We urge the public to disregard any such rumour and it amounts to grandstanding by anyone still trying to make political gains out of nothing.

TUNDE MOSHOOD
SA Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development

EFCC Quizzes Medview Airline CEO, Muneer Bankole

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has quizzed the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Medview Airline, Muneer Bankole.
Naija News reports that the anti-graft agency detained Bankole on Monday at its headquarters in Abuja over a case of alleged diversion of hajj funds.

It was gathered that Bankole arrived at the EFCC headquarters around 11am following an invitation by the commission regarding the case.

Bankole is said to have received funds from the National Hajj Commission, and an additional $900,000, for the airlift of pilgrims in 2019.

He was alleged to have failed to execute the airlift contract after receiving the mobilization funds.

Confirming Bankole’s detention, EFCC Spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, said that investigation into the allegations against him was ongoing.

In a related development, the anti-graft agency has filed N2.9 billion fraud charges against former Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha.

This is coming hours after the former governor officially declared his presidential bid for 2023.

Okorocha was charged alongside Anyim Nyerere Chinenye, Naphtali International Limited, Perfect Finish Multi Projects Limited, Consolid Projects Consulting Limited, Pramif International Limited, and Legend World Concepts Limited.

In the 17 counts filed on Monday at the Federal High Court, Abuja, EFCC alleged that they conspired to steal N2.9 billion public funds.

Excitement as Emirates Super Jumbo Lifts Real Madrid For Spanish Super Cup

Real Madrid is all set for their epic match against Barcelona. The Emirates A380 emblazoned with the blue Expo 2020 “mobility” livery lifted one of the most popular clubs in global football all the way from Madrid, Spain, to defend their title at the Spanish Super Cup semi-finals on July 12.

Onboard this special charter flight, guests and players from the Spanish club experienced the airline’s signature inflight services to rest and unwind in complete comfort ahead of their much-anticipated match.

This included exquisite onboard gourmet meals and full flatbeds with premium bedding in First and Business Class, over 4,500 channels of the latest movies, TV shows and music on Emirates’ ice inflight entertainment system, and Emirates’ famous shower spa at 40,000 ft. above ground.

Emirates’ friendly and professional crew ensured the well-being of all onboard, with enhanced health and safety measures and the observance of protocols such as the wearing of masks.

Emirates is the world’s largest operator of the iconic double-decker A380 aircraft which attracts excitement from aviation enthusiasts and plane spotters wherever it flies. Customers also love the Emirates A380 experience for its spacious cabins and award-winning inflight products in all classes.

Since 2011, Emirates has been Real Madrid’s official main sponsor, bringing together two of the world’s most globally recognised brands in aviation and football.

With a global fan base of 500 million, the Spanish Club has established itself as a major force in sports, and has consistently played in the top division since its inception.

As the world’s largest international airline, Emirates continues to connect Real Madrid with fans and spectators from every corner of the globe, through various events that create moments of inspiration and joy.

Sunday Igboho: No Election In Yorubaland In 2022 – Prof. Akintoye

The leader of Ilana Omo Oodua Worldwide, a Yoruba self-determination group, Professor Banji Akintoye, has said no election will be allowed to hold in the southwest in 2022.
In a statement on Friday, Akintoye expressed hope for the quick release of Yoruba agitator, Sunday Igboho Adeyemo, who is in detention in Benin Republic.

The historian urged the supporters of the youth leader to remain hopeful, adding that Yoruba nation will be achieved soon.

He said: “I am sure that all Yoruba people everywhere are expecting me to make a statement about our dear hero, Chief Sunday Adeyemo. How I wish I could announce now that he has been released.

“Unfortunately, we are not blessed with that wonderful news today. But I join all Yoruba patriots everywhere in the fervent hope that he will soon be released.

“Adeyemo will soon be blessed with liberation from detention. The Yoruba people will soon be blessed with their Yoruba nation state, the greatest desire of their hearts. Their new Yoruba country will quickly blossom into a marvellous country of peace, love and exceptional prosperity.

“Among most Yoruba self determination advocates worldwide, the determination exists and is growing that there shall be no state governorship and house of assembly elections in our homeland in 2022. The next election that we Yoruba people will engage in will be the first election in our own new country.”

BREAKING: Emirates Lands In Nigeria In Style [PHOTOS]

Emirates has today touched down in both Abuja and Lagos, marking the restart of daily services to Nigeria from Dubai. It received a spectacular water canon welcome at Murtala Mohammed Airport, Lagos.

Both flights from Dubai, EK 785 to Abuja and EK 783 to Lagos, were welcomed to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and Murtala Muhammed International Airport with water cannon salutes. Upon arrival, a cake cutting ceremony was also held between Emirates officials and the airport authorities to mark the resumption of operations.

Paulos Legesse, Country Manager Nigeria said: “We are delighted to resume operations to and from Nigeria, and are pleased to see strong interest from our customers, reflected in robust forward bookings from the time of our announcement, as well as today’s full flights from Dubai to Abuja and Lagos. The services will also give our customers the opportunity once again to safely experience Emirates’ superior product and service, offering them convenient travel options to Dubai, an already popular destination for Nigerian travellers, as well as seamless connectivity other key cities across our network.”

The aircraft being deployed to both Nigerian cities is the three class Boeing 777-300ER which offers 8 luxurious First Class suites, 42 generous Business Class seats, and over 300 seats in Economy Class.

Customers across all classes were able to enjoy the airline’s regional delicacies onboard, as well as its renowned in-flight entertainment system, ice, featuring over 4,500 channels of on-demand entertainment, including Nollywood films and content.

Emirates operates to Abuja with EK 785 and 786. EK 785 departs Dubai at 1100hrs, arriving in Abuja at 1540hrs. The return flight, EK 786 takes off from Abuja at 1900, arriving in Dubai at 0435hrs the next day. Emirates flight EK 783 to Lagos departs Dubai at 1030hrs, arriving in Lagos at 1540hrs. The return flight EK 784 departs Lagos at 1810hrs, arriving in Dubai at 0415hrs the next day.

Travelling to Dubai: Ensuring the safety of travellers, visitors, and the community, Covid-19 PCR tests are mandatory for all inbound passengers arriving to Dubai, including UAE citizens, residents and tourists, irrespective of the country they are coming from. Travellers coming from Nigeria must hold a negative Covid-19 PCR test certificate for a test taken no more than 72 hours before departure.

Additionally, the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has specified designated laboratories for passengers departing Nigeria and travellers must obtain their certificate from one of the labs listed here to be accepted on the flight. Travellers coming from Nigeria will also need to take another Covid-19 PCR test on arrival at Dubai International Airport.

Since it safely resumed tourism activity in July 2020, Dubai remains one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations, especially during the winter season. The city is open for international business and leisure visitors. From sun-soaked beaches and heritage activities to world class hospitality and leisure facilities,

Dubai offers a variety of world-class experiences. It was one of the world’s first cities to obtain Safe Travels stamp from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) – which endorses Dubai’s comprehensive and effective measures to ensure guest health and safety.

Dubai is currently hosting the world for Expo 2020, happening between October 2021 and March 2022. Through the theme of Connecting Minds, Creating the Future, Expo 2020 Dubai aims to inspire people by showcasing the best examples of collaboration, innovation and cooperation from around the world.

Its programme is packed with experiences to suit all ages and interests, including a rich line-up of themed weeks, entertainment, and edutainment. Art and culture fans as well as food and technology enthusiasts can explore exhibits, workshops, performances, live shows and more.

Emirates continues to lead the industry with innovative products and services and recently took its customer care initiatives further with even more flexible booking policies which have been extended to 31 May 2022.BREAKING: Emirates Lands In Nigeria In Style [PHOTOS]

Photos: Fidelity Bank MD Mrs. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe Receives New Air Peace Embraer Aircraft

Managing Director/CEO, Fidelity Bank PLC. Mrs. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe was in Abuja on Thursday June 17, 2021 when Air Peace Airline took delivery of the first of 13 brand new E195-E2 directly from Embraer facility in São José dos Campos, Brazil. The new aircraft with registration number 5N-BYF, named Helen Ekwusi Onyema, touched down at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja at about 2.00 pm and was greeted with a water salute by men of the Fire service department of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN.

Emirates Milestone flight EK2021 highlights industry readiness for travel rebound

Emirates’ one-of-a-kind flight EK2021 proudly made a journey across the different emirates this week , to signal the aviation industry’s readiness for a travel rebound. It was also to celebrate the UAE’s remarkable vaccination programme that has administered close to 9 million vaccines doses to date.

The special flight, which carried fully vaccinated crew and passengers onboard, was unprecedented in the industry in scale. With close to 400 fully vaccinated customers onboard, the flight illustrates confidence and undiminished excitement for air travel. EK2021 was also supported by fully vaccinated teams across the aviation eco-system, from onboard crew to ground staff, demonstrating the readiness of the UAE’s aviation eco-system to support the safe rebound of air travel.

In spite of the pandemic, the UAE has maintained its status as a leading global aviation hub and it will continue to grow its position as a hub for passengers and cargo traffic by investing in innovations and close collaborations with all stakeholders. Onboard EK2021 was a group of senior officials from key aviation and health sector entities hosted by Emirates.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group said: “The UAE’s rapid pace and progress in vaccinating our population is a testament of our leadership’s vision and commitment to safeguard our communities, and manage the pandemic by adopting the appropriate measures to protect both nationals and residents. Today’s flight is a showcase of the combined efforts and dedication of all stakeholders in supporting the vaccination programme, and the implementation of protocols in the past 12 months to ensure a safe travel journey, stimulate passenger traffic and set the groundwork for the ramp up of air travel in the near future. Emirates continues to support the national vaccination programme and we are pleased with the progress made within the group in vaccinating our employees.”

The special flight was operated with Emirates’ newest A380 aircraft which featured the airline’s brand-new Premium Economy seats, and refreshed cabin interiors across every cabin class. First and Business Class customers were able to safely network and mingle in the iconic A380 Onboard Lounge.

Combining the most advanced aviation technology and an inspired cabin design, The A380 remains a customer favourite for its unmatched comfort and spaciousness.

This month, Airbus launched a travel companion app called “Tripset”. The application aggregates and provides flight and travel information to ease and restore passenger’s trust in their end-to-end journey when traveling by air during the COVID-19 pandemic. Providing passengers with the latest and most relevant travel conditions, restriction and health requirements in place, without having to consult a variety of sources. Tripset is part of Airbus’ continuing commitment, alongside airlines, industry partners and regulatory agencies, to encourage the flying public to keep trust in air travel, supporting the safe and well-coordinated return to flight, which is essential for economic recovery from COVID-19.

On the ground, passengers checked in using the latest biometric technologies for a seamless journey across multiple touchpoints. Biometric touchpoints were recently expanded to include over 18 check-in desks and 15 boarding gates at the airport. As a result, customers across all classes enjoyed seamless biometric entry to experience the First and Business Class lounge at DXB.

All EK2021 passengers were provided rapid COVID-19 PCR tests, facilitated by Pure Health. Pure Health, the largest integrated healthcare solutions provider in the UAE, has facilitated the administration of up to 4 million PCR tests at Dubai Airports to date. It has also played a vital role in providing COVID-19 testing support to the aviation industry at large, since the start of the pandemic.

As passengers disembarked, they were handed commemorative certificates for taking part in this initiative.

EK2021 was commanded by UAE National Captain Ahmed Al Obeidli, First Officer Ramon Wilde and flight deck crew were supported by Captain Ricky Garala. All proceeds for EK2021 have been donated to the Emirates Airline Foundation, the airline’s non-profit charity organisation which supports projects around the world aimed at improving the quality of life for disadvantaged children around the world.

Emirates Skywards launches exclusive double Tier Miles offer for members

Emirates Skywards, the award-winning loyalty programme of Emirates and flydubai, has rolled out an exclusive offer to help members fast-track to a higher tier status. Members can automatically earn double Tier Miles on all Emirates and flydubai flights booked from 1 April until 30 June, for travel between 1 April and 30 December 2021.

To be eligible for the promotion, customers need to simply be existing Emirates Skywards members, or join as a new member before 30 June 2021. Members can now move up tiers faster, and unlock an extensive range of benefits and rewards.

The offer applies to any ticket, regardless of fare type, purchased on Emirates or flydubai during the offer period – helping members quickly earn sufficient Tier Miles to bump up one tier status higher. For example, an Emirates Skywards Blue tier member can upgrade to an Emirates Skywards Silver tier member, and an Emirates Skywards Silver tier member can upgrade to an Emirates Skywards Gold tier member.

Emirates Skywards offers four tiers of membership – Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum. Each Tier offers members unique privileges and advantages, including lounge access, priority boarding, dedicated check-in counters, complimentary seat-selection, and much more.

In addition to earning double Tier Miles, members will still be able to earn Skywards Miles on flights flown during the offer period. Skywards Miles can be redeemed for an extensive range of rewards, including flight upgrades, hotel stays and money-can’t-buy experiences.

With more than 27 million members worldwide – Emirates Skywards continues to provide its members with rich value offerings, unmatched rewards and innovative offerings. Earlier this year, the loyalty programme was one if the first in the world, and first in the region, to offer members a generous extension on tier status until 2022. The loyalty programme has also extended validity of any Skywards Miles due to expire since April 2020 until 30 June 2021.

For more information on Emirates Skywards, visit emirates.com/skywards.

Blackstone, Bill Gates Plans $4.3b Bid for Signature Aviation

Bill Gates joined the battle for Signature Aviation Plc, allying with Blackstone Group Inc.’s $4.3 billion approach for the world’s biggest operator of private jet bases.

Gates’s Cascade Investment LLC, the No. 1 shareholder in Signature Aviation, and Blackstone are in advanced discussions with the London-based firm on a $5.17-a-share cash offer, they said Friday in a statement. Signature had said in December it would accept an approach from Blackstone if a firm offer were made at that level.

The involvement of Gates means Blackstone becomes the firm favorite to purchase Signature after Carlyle Group Inc. said Thursday it was also considering a potential offer. A third suitor, Global Infrastructure Partners, said in December that it was considering its options after its lower bid was rejected.

Shares of Signature were trading 4.8% lower as of 8:10 a.m. in London as prospects for a bidding war faded. The stock was priced at 397.90 pence, equivalent to $5.40, still above the offer mooted by Blackstone.

Private flying is one of the few travel sectors to have benefited from the coronavirus pandemic, offering the well-heeled the opportunity to continue traveling while minimizing potentially risky contact with other passengers.

Under the Blackstone plan, Microsoft Corp. founder Gates, who owns 19% of Signature, would contribute his shareholding and top it up with cash to become a 30% owner. Blackstone owns 70% of the bidding entity.

Signature, which changed its name from BBA Aviation last year, traces its origins to a Scottish industrial company founded in 1879. It’s had several names since and has focused on private aviation in recent years, selling parts distributor Ontic last year for $1.4 billion.

The company has also made several acquisitions, buying rival Landmark Aviation for $2.1 billion from Carlyle in 2016, and acquiring Epic Fuels for $88 million in 2018. Gates became an investor in 2009 and holds his stake through Cascade Investment LLC.

Signature had become a more likely takeover target since simplifying and selling its Ontic unit, according to Citi analyst Charles Mortimer.

Carlyle is working with Bank of America Corp. and Morgan Stanley on its approach, people familiar with the matter said, asking not to be identified because the information is private.

Signature confirmed the Carlyle approach and set Feb. 4 as a deadline for a firm offer. It set a Jan. 14 deadline for formal proposals from the Blackstone and GIP.

– Culled Bloomberg