Air Peace Chairman takes up new challenge in human rights defence
The Chairman/CEO of West and Central Africa’s largest airline, Air Peace, Dr Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, has taken up a new challenge – human rights defence.
On Thursday, December 4th, 2025, Dr Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, was unveiled and honoured as a Distinguished Human Rights Defender at the 30th Anniversary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) at the Nigerian Airforce Conference Centre, Abuja.
Dr Onyema’s unveiling was predicated on his remarkable, sustained and humane interventions in advancing dignity, justice and protection for vulnerable groups across Africa. The Commission highlighted his philanthropic rescue efforts for trafficked Nigerian girls in Côte d’Ivoire, his free evacuation of Nigerians stranded during the xenophobic attacks in South Africa, and his humanitarian airlifts during the COVID-19 pandemic and other conflict situations.
Also cited was his long-standing commitment to peacebuilding in the Niger Delta, where he championed non-violent transformation initiatives; his support for Nigerian sportsmen and women; and his relief interventions for internally displaced persons in Northern Nigeria.
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Described as “a patriot whose actions consistently restore confidence in humanity”, the honour consolidates decades of work that embody compassion, justice and nation-building.
This latest recognition adds to the Onyema’s growing list of national honours, including the National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) bestowed on him by the Federal Government of Nigeria, affirming his towering influence in humanitarian service and corporate leadership.
The ceremony concluded with resounding commendations for all honourees, as the NHRC marked three decades of defending human rights and promoting the dignity of all Nigerians.
Also honoured were Prof. Wole Soyinka, GCON; Alhaja Saudatu Mahdi, MFR; Prof. Ngozi Joy Ezeilo, SAN, OON; Dr Abdul Shaibu Oroh, OON; Dr Jake Epelle; Prof. Yusuf Ali, SAN; Chief (Mrs) Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi; and Barr. Mrs Ayo Obe, OON.
