The President of the Global Peace Movement International (GPMI), Dr. Mike Uyi, has congratulated Air Peace Limited on its emergence as the only Nigerian airline to rank among the Top 10 Airlines in Africa by Seat Capacity for July 2026, describing the feat as a landmark achievement worthy of national celebration.

Dr. Uyi said the ranking is not only a recognition of Air Peace's operational strength but also a testament to what determination, resilience, visionary leadership and indigenous entrepreneurship can accomplish despite Nigeria's challenging business environment.

According to him, Air Peace has, over the years, consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to expanding Nigeria's aviation industry through strategic investments in fleet expansion, route development, manpower training and international operations.

"At a time when many businesses have struggled under economic headwinds, policy inconsistencies and infrastructure deficits, Air Peace has continued to grow from a domestic airline into a continental and international carrier that proudly flies the Nigerian flag across the world.

"This latest ranking among Africa's top airlines based on seat capacity is not an accident. It is the product of years of deliberate planning, huge financial investment, resilience and consistency. Every Nigerian should take pride in this remarkable accomplishment."

Dr. Uyi noted that while the airline, like every major carrier across the world, occasionally experiences operational challenges, including flight delays and schedule adjustments, such issues should not overshadow its immense contributions to Nigeria's aviation sector and national economy.

He explained that aviation remains one of the most complex industries globally, where factors such as weather conditions, technical inspections, airport congestion and regulatory requirements often influence flight operations.

"It is easy to focus on isolated inconveniences while ignoring years of outstanding service and national impact. Constructive criticism is healthy, but we must also learn to celebrate excellence whenever it is earned.

"Air Peace has remained operational for well over a decade, expanded its fleet, created thousands of direct and indirect jobs, opened new domestic and international routes and continued to invest in Nigeria even when many predicted it would fail."

The GPMI President called on Nigerians to deliberately support indigenous enterprises that have distinguished themselves through hard work and innovation rather than allowing ethnic, tribal or sectional sentiments to undermine national institutions.

"Our greatest challenge as a nation is that we sometimes become our own worst critics. We are quick to applaud foreign brands while relentlessly attacking our own businesses. This culture discourages investment and weakens national confidence.

"Nigerians must rise above tribalism, nepotism and unnecessary divisions. We should unite behind indigenous companies that continue to project our nation positively on the global stage. When Nigerian companies succeed, Nigeria succeeds."

Dr. Uyi stressed that supporting indigenous businesses should not mean overlooking areas requiring improvement, but rather encouraging continuous growth while acknowledging genuine achievements.

He further noted that Air Peace has become a symbol of Nigerian resilience and private sector capacity, proving that local enterprises can compete favourably with some of Africa's biggest aviation brands.

According to him, the airline's success should inspire young entrepreneurs to pursue excellence, innovation and long-term sustainability in their respective fields.

The GPMI President also extended the same principle of recognition to public service, saying Nigerians should equally celebrate leaders whose policies, vision and performance have positively impacted national development.

He particularly commended the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, for what he described as decades of purposeful leadership in public office.

Dr. Uyi said Senator Akpabio's record as a former Governor of Akwa Ibom State laid a solid developmental foundation that successive administrations have continued to build upon through sustained infrastructure, institutional growth and economic expansion.

"Leadership should be assessed through measurable impact rather than political sentiments. Senator Godswill Akpabio's developmental footprint in Akwa Ibom remains evident years after leaving office. That speaks volumes about visionary governance."

He further praised the Senate President's leadership of the National Assembly, stating that his efforts in fostering cooperation between the legislature and the executive have contributed to improved governance and accelerated implementation of policies aimed at national development.

"Our democracy functions best when institutions work collaboratively while respecting constitutional boundaries. The current synergy between the National Assembly and the Executive demonstrates that government can work effectively for the people when national interest takes precedence over partisan considerations."

Dr. Uyi emphasized that societies progress when excellence is recognized, patriotism is encouraged and individuals who make meaningful contributions are appreciated regardless of ethnic, religious or political affiliations.

"As a nation, we must cultivate a culture that rewards excellence, integrity and service. Whether in business, governance, education, healthcare or any other sector, outstanding performance should be acknowledged because recognition inspires greater achievement."

He therefore urged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to continue supporting institutions and individuals whose contributions are enhancing the country's image, strengthening the economy and promoting national unity.

"Air Peace has given Nigeria another reason to be proud. Let us celebrate this achievement as one people. Let us encourage our indigenous enterprises to soar higher. Together, we can build a nation where excellence is rewarded and patriotism becomes our collective identity."