Nigerians living in Brazil have accused the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Air Peace airline of misleading them with promises of direct flights between Lagos and São Paulo. The expectations followed a widely publicised Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) reportedly signed in August 2025 between Nigeria and Brazil, which was presented as a step toward improved aviation links.
Residents say that months after the announcement, no direct service has materialised. In the absence of a direct route, travellers still rely on connections through Addis Ababa, South Africa, or Europe, often at costs of up to $1,500. The prospect of a shorter, cheaper direct flight reportedly led some people to delay travel plans and arrange business trips around the anticipated service.
According to these accounts, assurances from government representatives and Air Peace officials suggested the route would begin in November 2025 with significantly reduced fares. As February 2026 approaches, however, no flights have commenced and no official explanation has been provided.
Members of the community describe financial and emotional strain, particularly for students and small business owners who organised their plans based on the expected route. Some say they declined alternative travel options while waiting for the promised service.
Several residents also note that similar promises of direct connectivity between Nigeria and Brazil have been made by past administrations. They say this instance raised higher expectations because of the strong publicity surrounding the MoU.
As of now, there is no public evidence of ticket sales, flight schedules, or regulatory approvals for a Lagos–São Paulo route. Attempts by the press to obtain comments from Air Peace and the Ministry of Aviation have reportedly not received a response.
