Onyema unveiled as Distinguished Human Rights DeFender at NHRC 30th Anniversary Gala 

In a moment of national significance, the Chairman/CEO of West and Central Africa’s largest airline, Air Peace, Dr Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, has been unveiled and honoured as a Distinguished Human Rights Defender at the 30th Anniversary Celebration of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), held at the prestigious Nigerian Air Force Conference Centre, Abuja.

The event, which convened eminent voices in Nigeria’s human rights landscape, also honoured other distinguished figures, including Prof. Wole Soyinka, GCON; Alhaja Saudatu Mahdi, MFR; Prof. Ngozi Joy Ezeilo, SAN, OON; Dr Abdul Shaibu Oroh, OON; Dr Jake Epelle; Prof. Yusuf Ali, SAN; Chief (Mrs) Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi; and Barr. Mrs Ayo Obe.

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Dr Onyema’s unveiling was predicated on his remarkable, sustained and humane interventions in advancing dignity, justice and protection for vulnerable groups across Africa. The Commission highlighted his philanthropic rescue efforts for trafficked Nigerian girls in Côte d’Ivoire, his free evacuation of Nigerians stranded during the xenophobic attacks in South Africa, and his humanitarian airlifts during the COVID-19 pandemic and other conflict situations.

Also cited was his long-standing commitment to peacebuilding in the Niger Delta, where he championed non-violent transformation initiatives; his support for Nigerian sportsmen and women; and his relief interventions for internally displaced persons in Northern Nigeria.

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Described as “a patriot whose actions consistently restore confidence in humanity”, the honour consolidates decades of work that embody compassion, justice and nation-building.

This latest recognition joins Dr Onyema’s growing list of national honours, including the National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) bestowed on him by the Federal Government of Nigeria, affirming his towering influence in humanitarian service and corporate leadership.

The ceremony concluded with resounding commendations for all honourees, as the NHRC marked three decades of defending human rights and promoting the dignity of all Nigerians.