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A Night of Tribute: Honoring National Icons
Air Peace, a prominent airline in Nigeria, recently held a poignant Night of Tribute to honor its departed Sports Diplomacy Ambassadors. These individuals—Moses Effiong, Charles Bassey, Christian Chukwu, Obisia Nwakpa, and Peter Rufai—were celebrated for their contributions to Nigerian sports and national pride.
The event took place at the main auditorium of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Lagos on Monday. It was organized by Segun Odegbami, a football legend, who brought together families, former teammates, stakeholders, and dignitaries to commemorate the legacies of these national icons.
Several notable figures attended the tribute, including Mr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, the Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports; Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, a clergyman who delivered an emotional sermon and shared memories of the athletes’ achievements; and Mrs. Oluwatoyin Olajide, the Chief Operating Officer of Air Peace. Other respected individuals from Nigeria’s sports and corporate sectors also graced the occasion.
Soulful performances by Yinka Davies, a renowned vocalist, added to the emotional atmosphere of the evening, blending elements of tribute, nostalgia, and reverence.
Dr. Allen Onyema, the Chairman of Air Peace, delivered a heartfelt address that highlighted the airline’s commitment to national pride and remembrance. He described the fallen athletes as patriots who dedicated themselves to the nation without expecting rewards, emphasizing their sacrifices for honor and country.
Onyema shared personal stories about his interactions with the late Charles Bassey and Peter Rufai, reflecting on missed opportunities to support them before their passing. He also spoke about the challenges faced by the 1976 Olympic team, who were recalled just before the Games in Montreal due to Nigeria’s anti-apartheid stance and later returned home to face neglect.
He expressed concern over the lack of sustained recognition for sports icons and stressed the importance of honoring them to inspire true nationalism among the youth. Onyema praised Odegbami for his efforts in advocating for these legends, calling him “a man I will love forever” for his selflessness and resilience.
In 2022, Air Peace had already hosted a grand ceremony to honor the 1980 AFCON-winning squad and the 1976 Olympic team. The airline established a permanent Wall of Fame at the NIIA and the Eko Hotel in Lagos. As part of its Sports Diplomacy Ambassadors initiative, Air Peace awarded these athletes lifetime, unlimited business-class flights, making it a defining legacy project for the brand.
For Air Peace, the Night of Tribute was more than just an event; it was a powerful national statement that emphasized the importance of remembering those who uplifted the spirit of the nation. By honoring these heroes, the airline reaffirmed its role as not just a carrier of passengers, but as a symbol of patriotism, memory, and dignity.
