Air Peace CEO calls for aviation tax review and economic boycott of South Africa

Onyema stated that excessive levies, particularly the five percent passenger service charge collected by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, have contributed to the collapse of several Nigerian airlines. He proposed an independent committee comprising technocrats, aviation experts, and industry operators to address these issues. Beyond aviation, Onyema also advocated for an economic boycott of South Africa by Nigerians in response to recurring xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals.

While supporting calls for consequences, he cautioned against violence or reprisals targeting South African businesses in Nigeria, noting that many Nigerians hold investments in such companies. Instead, he suggested withholding investment and patronage from South Africa as a non-violent, yet powerful, form of retaliation. He argued that withdrawing financial support would send a stronger message than street protests or violence, and that South African authorities have failed to adequately protect foreigners during outbreaks of xenophobic violence.