By Peter Omopo | September 17, 2025
Nigeria’s largest carrier, Air Peace, has announced the creation of 1,000 new jobs for young Nigerians through its 2025/2026 Graduate Trainee Programme, in response to the Federal Government’s recent suspension of the 4 per cent Free on Board (FOB) levy on imported goods.
The levy, introduced by the Nigeria Customs Service earlier this year, had triggered widespread backlash from manufacturers, importers, and clearing agents, who warned it would worsen inflation, undermine trade competitiveness, and damage the country’s investment climate.
Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, confirmed the suspension after consultations with stakeholders. He said the government took the decision to safeguard economic stability and ensure Nigeria remained attractive to investors.
Reacting to the development, Air Peace Chairman Allen Onyema praised President Bola Tinubu and Edun for what he called “responsive leadership,” adding that the policy reversal had given the aviation sector a lifeline.
“This suspension removes a heavy burden that could have crippled airlines and triggered massive job losses,” Onyema said in a statement on Wednesday. “In turn, Air Peace is reciprocating this kind gesture by creating 1,000 fresh graduate jobs for young Nigerians.”
He described the initiative as proof that government-private sector collaboration could yield significant economic benefits.
“If further supportive measures like this come from the Federal Government, thousands more jobs will be created in the aviation sector. This is how partnerships can transform a nation,” Onyema added.
The airline explained that the Graduate Trainee Programme would equip young graduates with essential skills, mentorship, and practical exposure to thrive in aviation and related industries, while also serving as a talent pipeline for the company’s long-term growth.
According to Air Peace, interested applicants must:
- Be 30 years old or younger at the time of application.
- Hold at least a Second Class Lower (2:2) degree in any discipline from a recognised university.
- Possess an NYSC discharge certificate, exemption, or exclusion letter.
- Demonstrate passion, adaptability, and willingness to learn.
Applications can be submitted via flyairpeace.com/graduate-trainee-program or by scanning the QR code on the official programme flier.
