Air Peace CEO ALLEN ONYEMA breaks down the BRUTAL REALITIES of building West Africa’s largest ai in an actively hostile business environment.

Originally driven by a philanthropic mission to solve massive UNEMPLOYMENT in southeast Nigeria, Onyema details how his NAIVETY about the "1,000 jobs per Boeing 737" myth threw him into a ruthless aviation sector.

Beyond the economics, Mr Onyema exposes the systemic challenges of operating in Nigeria, from regulatory hurdles to cutthroat INTERNAL SABOTAGE.

In a STRIKING REVELATION, the man who built an aviation empire opens up about his own profound FEAR OF FLYING—a paradox that underscores the sheer willpower required to maintain his $100M+ vision. He tells me about the true cost of aviation job creation, how to navigate hostile emerging markets, and the psychology of leading an industry you are fundamentally afraid of.

01.28 His quest was to Create Jobs: "I was Naive"

02.17 The Paradox: An Airline CEO Terrified of Flying

06.41. No Business Plan, Just God on his Side

07.23 Financial Discipline is Key

08.22 99% of Hurdles are Man-Made

09.52 The Real Cost of Safety

11.05. Sabotage: An Inside Job

12:45 Surviving Nigeria's Hostile Business Environment

15.23 Finance: No Banks, Your Own Money

17.00. A Good Deal With Emirates

18.36. The Gulf Crisis - an Opportunity for Africa

20.54 What's Up With South Africa?

23.33. Why He Prays to the President

25.00. From Ignorance to Expertise

KEYWORDS:Air Peace, Dr Allen Onyema, Allen Onyema interview, Martine Dennis, Nigerian aviation, African airlines, Boeing 737, Doing business in Nigeria, hostile business environment, aviation industry challenges, fear of flying, airline CEO fear of flying, corporate sabotage Africa, business strategy in emerging markets ;How Air Peace started, Allen Onyema net worth business, challenges of starting an airline, aviation economics explained, job creation in Africa.

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Guest: Adefunke Adeyemi, Secretary General of African Civil Aviation Commission

In this episode, we have a super conversation with lawyer and aviation expert, Adefunke Adeyemi, to discuss open skies in Africa's aviation industry.

She outlines signifiicant progress made on the continent towards full implementation of the ambitious Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). Adefunke also reveals how she views flying: it's not just about getting from point A to point B, it is integral to life. We meet on the sidelines of Nigeria's inaugural Aviation Aquisition and Investment Summit, and Adefunke tells the audience about her twin passions: the law and aviation. As a long time aviation player, Adefunke is upbeat about where Nigeria is today and is optimistic that the recent improvements will not be easily upended if a new administration comes to power in next year's elections.

I ask how she has risen to senior positions in aviation - which is very much a male-dominated sector - and she outlines the strategy of the "7 Cs."

Character, Courage, Confidence, Competence,Capital, Commitment and Charisma.

🌟 The 7 Cs for Women in Leadership - by Adefunke Adeyemi

Funke has devised a strategy over her 25-year career that breaks down the essential attributes every woman needs to lead effectively, especially in male-dominated sectors:

CHARACTER: Your integrity and values. It’s what keeps you in the room once your competence gets you there.

COURAGE: The bravery to challenge the status quo and push through the "infamous" delays in policy implementation.

CONFIDENCE: Owning your space and silencing the inner critic.

COMPETENCE: The technical "price of entry." You must be a subject matter expert to command respect.

CAPITAL: Not about money, this is social capital. How do you present to the world? Who do people say you are? The ability to build strategic networks

COMMITMENT: As women we need to battle through what can be quite challenging physical times - we still need to show up.

CHARISMA: That magnetic quality that inspires others to follow your lead and join your mission. The ability to articulate a vision and tell a story that moves people to action.

🌍 Discussion Highlights

The African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC): Understanding its role as a specialized agency of the African Union.

Agenda 2063: Why connecting Africa via air is a top priority for the continent’s future.

The Yamoussoukro Decision: Navigating the binding agreement that connects 44 (and counting) African states.

The Pace of Progress: Why 38 countries have now committed to "accelerated implementation" and what that means for travelers and businesses.

🔑 Key Takeaway

"It's about more than just aviation; it's about the leadership required to unite 55 nations under one sky."

📱 Connect & Follow

Subscribe for more interviews with global leaders.

Comment below: Which of the 7 Cs are you working on this year?

Learn more about SAATM: [Link to AFCAC/AU Resources]

#WomenInLeadership #FunkeAdeyemi #Aviation #7Cs #Charisma #AfricanUnion #SAATM #LeadershipDevelopment

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Why Dangote Refinery Won't Lower Jet Fuel Prices: Festus Keyamo on Airfares & Subsidies

Is the era of cheap air travel in Africa over? With Jet A1 fuel prices skyrocketing by 70% to 80%, Nigerian airlines and passengers are feeling the immediate impact on ticket prices. In this exclusive AHAN Special Aviation Series interview, I sit down with Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, to ask the question on everyone’s mind: Can the new Dangote Refinery insulate Nigeria from global fuel shocks?

Minister Keyamo delivers a hard truth on the realities of global pricing, definitively ruling out a return to aviation fuel subsidies. Calling subsidies a "retrogressive" trap, he explains why Nigeria must stick to its new non-subsidy economic model—and hints at other "interventions" the government is exploring to save the aviation sector.

In this interview, we cover:

[00:00] The "Double Tragedy" of African Aviation: High costs and poor connectivity.

[01:15] The Jet A1 Crisis: Why aviation fuel has spiked by 80% and its impact on ticket prices.

[02:09] The Dangote Question: Can local refining actually lower fuel costs for local airlines?

[02:40] Global Pricing vs. Local Production: Why selling below market value is a subsidy.

[03:32] "Subsidies are Retrogressive": Keyamo’s firm stance on why the government cannot take a step back into the subsidy trap.

💡 Key Quote: "I think it would be retrogressive to take a step back and begin to think of subsidies again... my fear is that you take one step back, you take two steps back, and before you know it you’re back to full-blown subsidy!" – Hon. Minister Festus Keyamo.

Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the notification bell for more exclusive insights into Africa’s aviation and economic policies!

#Aviation #FestusKeyamo #DangoteRefinery #NigeriaEconomy #JetA1 #AfricanAviation

Festus Keyamo interview, Aviation Minister Nigeria, Dangote refinery aviation fuel, Jet A1 fuel price Nigeria, Nigeria airfare increase, fuel subsidy removal Nigeria, Martine Dennis interview, African aviation connectivity, Nigeria economy 2026, aviation fuel crisis Africa, AHAN Special Aviation Series, local airlines Nigeria intervention, Nigerian government aviation policy.

Dangote refinery update, Nigeria aviation news, cost of flight tickets in Nigeria, Jet A1 pricing, economic reforms in Nigeria, Tinubu administration policies, travel in Africa.

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Africa's Aviation Future: Insights from Henok Teffera Shawl

Explore the promising growth and ongoing challenges within Africa's aviation sector through an in-depth interview with Henok T. Shawl, a seasoned expert in international relations and aviation, currently supporting Boeing's efforts on the continent. Discover how infrastructure, policy, and training are shaping the future of African aviation.

Main Topics Covered:

• The role of Boeing and other stakeholders in developing African aviation infrastructure and capacity
• 
  
• Opportunities from Africa's demographic growth, intra-African trade, and policy initiatives
• 
  
• Challenges posed by high operating costs, fuel prices, and governance issues
• 
  
• The potential of low-cost carriers (LCCs) and sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) to transform the sector
• 
  
• The importance of regulatory cooperation and regional integrations like the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM)
• 
  
• Training and developing local aviation professionals for exponential growth
• 
  

Key Insights:

• Africa's airline industry has shown resilience despite disruptions, with a projected addition of 1,200 new aircraft over the next 20 years.
• 
  
• The continent’s passenger numbers are growing faster than other regions, driven by urbanization, a rising middle class, and policy initiatives like free trade agreements.
• 
  
• Infrastructure investments—including the new $12 billion Bole International Airport expansion in Ethiopia—are critical for accommodating growth.
• 
  
• The high cost of fuel in Africa remains a significant barrier but is coupled with efforts towards developing sustainable aviation fuels (SAF).
• 
  
• Effective governance and professional management are vital; Ethiopian Airlines exemplifies a successful model.
• 
  
• Collaboration among governments, the African Union, and industry players is accelerating policy harmonisation and regional market opening.

Timestamps:

00:00 - The significance of establishing Boeing’s Africa office in Addis Ababa

07:00 - The prospects and headwinds facing African airlines today

09:00 - The role of Boeing and industry groups in supporting policy implementation (SATA, SAATM)

11:00 - Infrastructure investments in airports across Africa as growth enablers

13:00 - Governance and professionalism as keys to airline success

15:00 - Projected demand for 1,700 new aircraft in Africa over 20 years

17:00 - The importance of intra-African trade and low-cost carriers in the continent’s aviation landscape

20:00 - Training African professionals: Boeing’s initiatives and regional workforce development

23:00 - The rise of low-cost carriers and infrastructure strategies for affordable travel

25:00 - Fuel costs and the shift towards sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) in Africa

29:00 - Policy gaps and the need for accelerated government action to unlock Africa’s aviation potential

32:00 - Boeing’s role in growing the aviation ecosystem and supporting local manufacturing

33:00 - Final thoughts on collaboration, professional management, and future opportunities

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Africa Here and Now Aviation Special - we are asking why the sector is so problematic, what needs to be done to improve it and the huge potential it holds for the continent's development.

KAMIL AL ALAWADHI, IATA Vice President for Africa and the Middle East shares insights into the unique hurdles facing African airlines, the impact of government policies, and strategies for sustainable growth across the continent. Discover how regional cooperation and safety initiatives are shaping the future of African aviation.

My conversation with Kamil took place BEFORE the conflict in the Gulf. We discussed:

*The role of IATA in aviation safety and sustainability

*Key barriers to airline success in Africa: government interference, costs, and regulatory challenges

*The importance of airline autonomy and strategic governance models in Africa

*Success stories: Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Egypt’s airline development strategies

*The impact of foreign investment and partnerships, including Qatar Airways

*Blocked airline funds and recent progress in Nigeria

*The significance and implementation challenges of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM)

*Safety initiatives and the focus on lowering accident rates in Africa

Timestamps:

00:27 - What is IATA and its role in global aviation sustainability

01:20 - Current assessment of Africa’s aviation sector and growth challenges

01:57 - Government interference and the need for airline autonomy in Africa

02:39 - How political barriers hamper airline success across the continent

04:01 - Why operating costs and perceived risks impact profitability in Africa

04:32 - The disparity in airline profitability: Middle East vs. Africa

05:00 - Cost factors: fuel, insurance, salaries, and operational expenses

06:17 - The effect of regulatory and tax policies on airline viability

06:49 - How non-aviation government decisions affect the aviation industry

07:27 - Success stories from Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Egypt’s airline governance

08:27 - The partnership between Rwanda and Qatar Airways and its benefits

09:23 - Blocked airline funds: progress with Nigeria and regulatory efforts

10:11 - The importance of supportive legal frameworks and international conventions

11:03 - The future outlook for airline funding and financial flows in Africa

12:05 - Challenges and delays in implementing the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM)

13:01 - The connection between open skies and Africa’s economic integration

13:49 - Political hurdles to full regional aviation market liberalization

14:19 - The need for industry-political collaboration and strategic leadership

15:18 - The critical role of industry and government cooperation for success

16:07 - Upcoming safety initiatives and safety performance in African aviation

18:12 - Optimism for African aviation’s potential with continued effort and collaboration

Resources & Links:

IATA - International Air Transport Association

SAATM (Single African Air Transport Market) - African Union

Cape Town Convention - Legal framework for aircraft leasing

Qatar Airways - Airline investment partner in Rwanda

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Nigeria's Foreign Minister, YUSUF TUGGAR with his Ghanaian counterpart, SAMUEL ABLAKWA sat down with me at Chatham House to explore the complex security dynamics in West Africa, including threats from terror groups, regional cooperation efforts, and the importance of self-reliance and local solutions. Both ministers refuted suggestions that ECOWAS had been severely weakened by the exit of the three Sahelian states - Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger (AES). They revealed that there is regular contact with the AES and security arrangements are being made with their involvement.

Earlier in the day, I had a 1+1 with Minister Tuggar and we delved deeper into Nigeria's regional security responsibilities and, more broadly, its approach to foreign policy.

Key Topics:

• The proliferation of weapons and increasing attacks in the region, claiming at least 44 lives daily
• The role of regional military structures like the multinational joint task force and efforts to update security architectures
• The evolution of the ECOWAS security initiatives, including the new Coalition of the Willing and challenges faced by previous frameworks like the Accra Initiative
• Diplomatic efforts to rebuild trust among countries in the Sahel, notably Nigeria's and Ghana's bilateral relations with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger
• The importance of framing security issues as transnational violent extremism, not solely religious warfare
• The need for regional ownership of security strategies, emphasising Nigeria’s leadership and contributions
• Addressing root causes such as governance deficits, unemployment, and local economic development like infrastructure projects
• The global implications of regional insecurity, including energy markets and potential recession risks

Timestamps:00:00 - The regional security crisis in West Africa and the need for multilateral collaboration

00:36 - The daily toll of attacks and the impact on regional stability

0:50 - Challenges of failed states, ungoverned spaces, and the epicenter of terror in the Sahel

2:00 - Existing security architectures, including hot pursuit frameworks and cross-border cooperation

3:42 - The evolving ECOWAS security initiatives, including the new Coalition of the Willing

4:00 - The decline of the original Accra Initiative and political suspicions around regional efforts

5:12 - Deployment of troops and the strategic approach to tackling insurgency

6:36 - The importance of framing violent extremism beyond religious narratives

7:22 - Nigeria's bilateral and regional security efforts and regional cooperation via ECOWAS

8:52 - The cooperation among Sahelian countries and Nigeria’s engagement strategies

9:08 - The significance of regional solutions led by African countries, avoiding externally imposed frameworks

11:35 - The success of regional-led peacekeeping models like ECOMOG and local solutions

12:40 - Challenges of cross-border conflicts like farmers versus herders and the need for coordinated approaches

13:19 - Funding security efforts and Nigeria’s role in financing regional peace and stability

14:14 - The strength of ECOWAS despite perceptions of weakening, and Nigeria’s historical leadership

15:34 - Nigeria’s contributions to anti-colonial struggles and continental leadership recognition

16:58 - Addressing root causes: governance, unemployment, and infrastructure development

19:36 - Misunderstandings of Nigeria’s security situation in the West and global perceptions

20:15 - The impact of global energy markets and the war in the Gulf on Africa’s economy

21:17 - Mitigation strategies if critical regions like the Strait of Hormuz are compromised, including oil refinery developmentsResources & Links:

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At 16, she was a policy volunteer. Today, Bogolo Joy Kenewendo is the economist rewriting the rules for De Beers and her country's diamond trade. In this exclusive interview, Botswana's visionary leader reveals why the "Diamond Era" is shifting—and how the country is racing to unearth a 70% unexplored frontier of critical minerals.

We sit down at the 2026 Mining Indaba in Cape Town to discuss Botswana's seismic economic pivot under President Duma Boko. As the global market faces a diamond slump, Minister Kenewendo outlines a radical new strategy: moving beyond raw extraction into downstream beneficiation, regional power interconnectors, and the unearthing of green minerals like copper, nickel, and manganese.

From the future of the De Beers partnership to the reality of Africa’s energy crisis and the "Kalahari Copper Belt," she outlines how she plans to navigate geopolitical turbulence while protecting Botswana's most valuable assets.

Chapters:

0:00 | The Diamond Dilemma: Why the monolith economy must pivot

1:15 | The 70% Frontier: Unearthing Africa’s hidden minerals

2:48 | Critical Minerals: Copper, Manganese, and the Green Revolution

4:20 | Regional Collaboration: Mining in Zambia, DRC, and Sierra Leone

5:50 | The Beneficiation Mandate: Why jewellery must be made in Botswana

8:01 | The Career Trajectory: From youth delegate to Minister

11:00 | Leading in a Male-Dominated Industry: “I stand my ground”

12:45 | The New Social License: Beyond CSR and "School Shoes"

14:30 | Nature Regeneration: Finalizing the new ESG policy

16:03 | President Duma Boko’s Vision: Urgency and Diversification

18:20 | Energy Security: The 500MW push for industrialization

#botswana#diamonds#criticalminerals#mininginvestment#africa#

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SAMAILA ZUBAIRU, CEO of Africa Finance Corporation, explores the strategic importance of African minerals in the context of global economic competition, infrastructure development, and the need for leadership coordination. As we chatted at the 2026 Investment in Mining Indaba in Cape Town, he emphasised the potential for Africa to transform its mineral resources into bankable projects that can drive economic growth and job creation. In our conversation, Mr Zubairu highlighted the urgency of seizing current opportunities while balancing domestic needs with global market demands.

Key Takeaways

*The strategic minerals compendium aims to reframe conversations around African minerals.

*Africa's minerals should not be viewed merely as commodities for export.

*Infrastructure development is crucial for realising Africa's aspirations.

*Leadership coordination is essential for effective resource management.

*Regional collaboration is vital for industrial decarbonisation and economic growth.

*Investment in mining can exceed four to five billion dollars annually.

*Africa's market potential is significant and must be recognized.

*Domestic needs should be prioritised alongside global market demands.

*Job creation is a key metric for evaluating projects in Africa.

*Current political will presents a unique opportunity for development.

Chapters

00:00

Reframing Africa's Mineral Narrative

03:28

Seizing the Moment for Infrastructure Development

07:28

Navigating Global Competition and Local Opportunities

11:30

Balancing Domestic Needs and Global Markets

14:30

The Moment for Leadership in Africa

Key Words

*Africa, minerals, infrastructure, investment, leadership, economic development, industrialisation, global competition, market opportunities, sustainable growth

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