Air Peace, West and Central Africa’s largest carrier, hosted a heartfelt Night of Tribute in honour of its departed Sports Diplomacy Ambassadors—Moses Effiong (MON), Charles Bassey (MON), Christian Chukwu (MFR), Obisia Nwakpa (Golden Gloves), and Peter Rufai (MON), fondly known as “Dodo Mayana” at the main auditorium of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos, on July 28, 2025.
The event, curated by football legend Dr. Segun Odegbami (MON), also known as “The Mathematical,” brought together families, former teammates, sports stakeholders, and dignitaries to celebrate the lives and legacies of these iconic national heroes.
Notable attendees included the Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr. Lloyd Ekweremadu; renowned clergyman Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, who delivered a touching sermon and took guests down memory lane; and the Chief Operating Officer of Air Peace, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Olajide.
The evening was further elevated by a soulful performance from celebrated vocalist Yinka Davies, blending tribute, nostalgia, and reverence into an unforgettable atmosphere.
Air Peace Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, delivered an emotional address, reaffirming the airline’s deep commitment to national pride, legacy, and remembrance.
He described the honourees as selfless patriots who served the country during a time when recognition and reward were uncertain, yet they chose to play for honour and for the love of the nation.
Dr. Onyema shared personal memories of the late Charles Bassey and Peter Rufai, expressing regret over missed opportunities to do more for them while they were alive.
He also highlighted the painful sacrifice of the 1976 Olympic team, which was withdrawn from the Montreal Games due to Nigeria’s anti-apartheid policy, only to return home to a nation that failed to honour their sacrifice.
He called for institutionalised recognition of sports legends, stressing that honouring national icons is crucial to reviving a culture of patriotism among the younger generation.
He lauded Dr. Odegbami for his unwavering efforts in championing the cause of these sportsmen, describing him as “a man I will love forever” for his selflessness and advocacy.
This tribute night follows Air Peace’s earlier initiative in 2022, when the airline hosted a grand ceremony to honour the 1980 AFCON-winning team and the 1976 Olympic squad.
The event included the unveiling of a permanent Wall of Fame at the NIIA and Eko Hotel, along with the award of lifetime, unlimited business-class flights to the honourees as part of the airline’s Sports Diplomacy Ambassadors initiative, now a defining legacy project for the brand.
For Air Peace, the Night of Tribute was more than just an event, it was a national affirmation that those who once lifted the spirit of the country must never be forgotten.
Through initiatives like this, the airline continues to position itself not just as a transporter of passengers, but as a custodian of memory, patriotism, and national pride.
