A fresh debate has erupted online after former senator and business mogul Ben Murray-Bruce urged the Federal Government to purchase 50% of outbound seats on Air Peace’s Lagos–São Paulo flights, to help sustain the newly launched Nigeria–Brazil air route.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on September 6, Murray-Bruce praised the recently signed Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Brazil, describing it as “a laudable milestone” that will enhance commerce, tourism, and diplomacy between the two nations.
He commended Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest private carrier, for pioneering the route, but warned that without government backing, the venture could struggle to remain viable.
“For this noble venture to endure, it must be nurtured. I strongly recommend that the Federal Government commit to purchasing no less than fifty percent of all outbound seats on each Air Peace flight to Brazil until such a time when passenger traffic naturally peaks,” Murray-Bruce said.
“We cannot claim to support local growth while turning to foreign alternatives. Patriotism is not negotiable,” he added, calling on all public officials to patronize Nigerian airlines for both domestic and international travel.
However, his suggestion has sparked widespread backlash from Nigerians who believe the proposal amounts to a state-sponsored subsidy for a private enterprise.
One user, @xabury, criticized the idea, writing:
“Sir, you’re indirectly encouraging state-sponsored trips for private visits in a country where our PHCs are suffering from basic drugs.”
Another, @chebeoc, added:
“There are thousands of public schools, hospitals, and roads that need government intervention, but a Nigerian elite wants intervention for a personal business!”
Similarly, @ManBiolee argued that “if fuel subsidy, which benefits the poor directly, can be removed, there’s no reason to subsidize a private airline.”
Others suggested that the focus should be on boosting economic and visa relations with Brazil rather than funding ticket purchases.
“We should be talking about increasing business relationships and pushing for visa-on-arrival, not buying seats,” wrote @MaQstretch.
While a few Nigerians supported Murray-Bruce’s patriotic appeal to “buy Nigerian,” the majority of online comments dismissed the proposal as misplaced priorities amid the country’s economic challenges.
Air Peace, which launched its inaugural Lagos–São Paulo flight in August, became the first West African airline to operate direct flights to South America — a move widely hailed as a bold step for Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The debate underscores broader public sentiment about the government’s role in supporting private businesses and the need for policies that balance national pride with economic pragmatism.
Fact Box: Nigeria–Brazil BASA and Air Peace Expansion
What is BASA?
A Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) is a treaty that allows airlines from two countries to operate international flights between their territories. The Nigeria–Brazil BASA aims to boost trade, tourism, and connectivity between both nations.
Why It Matters:
Brazil hosts one of the largest African diaspora populations in South America. The Lagos–São Paulo route is expected to open new opportunities for commerce, education, and cultural exchange.
Next Steps:
Air Peace hopes to expand more intercontinental routes under new BASA deals as Nigeria pushes for stronger South-South cooperation
