Allen Ifechukwu Onyema (born March 1964) is a Nigerian lawyer and entrepreneur, best known as the founder, Chairman, and CEO of Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest airline, established in 2013.
Early Life and Education
Onyema was born in Benin City, Nigeria, to Michael and Helen Onyema and is the first of nine children. He hails from Mbosi in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State. He studied law at the University of Ibadan, graduating in 1987, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1989.
Career and Humanitarian Efforts
In September 2019, Onyema and Air Peace organized a free evacuation mission to repatriate over 600 Nigerians from South Africa following xenophobic attacks. This initiative was widely praised by both the Nigerian government and the international community.
Legal Challenges
In November 2019, Onyema was indicted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for bank fraud and money laundering. In October 2024, additional charges of obstruction of justice were filed against him for allegedly submitting false documents to the U.S. government.
Onyema has consistently denied these allegations, maintaining his innocence.
Recent Developments
In October 2024, Air Peace celebrated its 10th anniversary. Onyema reflected on the airline’s journey, sharing his motivations for establishing the company and his commitment to creating employment opportunities in Nigeria.
