Hope in the Skies: Air Peace Repatriates 78 Nigerian Women Following Verydarkman’s Advocacy

Air Peace continuing its legacy of humanitarian intervention and national service. In a remarkable act of patriotism and corporate social responsibility, Nigeria's leading airline, Air Peace, has successfully evacuated 78 Nigerian women from Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, back to Nigeria at no cost. This humanitarian gesture comes in response to public outcry and advocacy initiated by social media influencer Verydarkman, who brought attention to the plight of these women several months ago.

The 78 Nigerian women found themselves stranded in Côte d’Ivoire under distressing circumstances. Many of them were victims of human trafficking, lured with promises of employment and better living conditions, only to end up in exploitative situations. Without the means to return home, they faced daily hardships, including lack of shelter, food, and medical care.

Their situation garnered widespread attention when Verydarkman, a prominent Nigerian social media activist known for his advocacy on social justice issues, highlighted their plight through various online platforms. His campaign mobilized public opinion and called on relevant authorities and organizations to take immediate action.

Responding to the call for help, Air Peace, under the leadership of its Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, pledged to evacuate the stranded women free of charge. This commitment aligns with the airline's history of humanitarian interventions, including previous evacuations of Nigerians from crisis-hit regions such as Sudan and South Africa.

In April 2025, Dr. Onyema publicly announced the airline's readiness to provide free flights and medical care for underage Nigerian girls trafficked to Côte d’Ivoire. He called on the Nigerian Embassy to assist in assembling the girls and coordinating their return, emphasizing the need for government support in ensuring their education and reintegration into society.

The evacuation was meticulously planned and executed. Air Peace deployed one of its aircraft to Félix Houphouët-Boigny International Airport in Abidjan, where the 78 women were received and processed for their return journey. The airline ensured that all necessary protocols were followed, including health screenings and documentation, to facilitate a smooth and safe repatriation.

Upon arrival in Nigeria, the women were welcomed by representatives from various government agencies and non-governmental organizations committed to providing them with the necessary support for reintegration. This includes medical check-ups, psychological counseling, and assistance in reconnecting with their families.

The successful evacuation has been met with widespread acclaim from the Nigerian public and international observers. Many have taken to social media to express their gratitude to Air Peace and Dr. Onyema for their selfless act. Verydarkman, whose advocacy played a pivotal role in bringing attention to the women's situation, also received commendations for his relentless efforts. 

Government officials have lauded the initiative, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts between the private sector and civil society in addressing humanitarian crises. They have also reiterated the government's commitment to combating human trafficking and ensuring the welfare of Nigerian citizens abroad.

This recent evacuation adds to Air Peace's growing portfolio of humanitarian missions. In 2019, the airline evacuated over 300 Nigerians from South Africa amid xenophobic attacks . Similarly, in 2023, Air Peace airlifted 277 Nigerians from Egypt during the Sudan crisis, demonstrating its commitment to national service beyond commercial interests.

Dr. Onyema has consistently emphasized that corporate entities have a role to play in national development and crisis response. His leadership has positioned Air Peace not just as a commercial airline but as a beacon of hope and national pride.

The successful evacuation underscores the power of advocacy in effecting social change. Verydarkman's campaign exemplifies how individuals can leverage digital platforms to highlight injustices and mobilize action. His efforts demonstrate that when citizens raise their voices against societal issues, they can prompt meaningful responses from both the public and private sectors.

While the evacuation marks a significant milestone, it also highlights the ongoing challenges of human trafficking and the exploitation of vulnerable populations. There is a pressing need for sustained efforts in education, law enforcement, and international cooperation to prevent such occurrences.

The Nigerian government, in collaboration with stakeholders, must continue to implement and enforce policies that protect citizens, especially women and children, from trafficking and exploitation. Public awareness campaigns, community engagement, and support systems are essential components in this fight.