Nigerians residing in Brazil have accused the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Air Peace airline of raising false hopes over the launch of direct flights between Lagos and São Paulo, following what was widely publicised as a landmark aviation agreement between Nigeria and Brazil.
The allegations stem from a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) reportedly signed in August 2025, which was touted as a major step toward strengthening air connectivity between both countries. However, months after the announcement, residents say no direct service has commenced, forcing travellers to continue relying on indirect routes through Addis Ababa, South Africa or Europe at costs of up to $1,500. The anticipated direct flights had reportedly prompted some individuals to postpone travel plans and schedule business engagements around the expected 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 publicly available evidence of ticket sales, flight schedules, or regulatory clearances for the proposed Lagos–São Paulo route. Efforts by the media to obtain reactions from Air Peace and the Ministry of Aviation have so far gone unanswered.
