Air Peace Honours Fallen Sports Legends with Emotional Night of Tribute

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 Air Peace Honours Fallen Sports Legends with Emotional Night of Tribute









Air Peace, West and Central Africa’s largest carrier, hosted a moving 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 the 28th of July 2025.

The event, curated by football legend Dr Segun Odegbami, MON, also known as “The Mathematical,” brought together families, former teammates, stakeholders, and dignitaries in celebration of the legacies of these national icons.

In attendance were, Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr Lloyd Ekweremadu, renowned clergyman, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo who gave a heartfelt sermon and a walk down the sports memory lane, the Chief Operating Officer of Air Peace, Mrs Oluwatoyin Olajide, and several respected figures from Nigeria’s sports and corporate communities. 

Soulful performances by iconic vocalist Yinka Davies elevated the evening into a stirring blend of tribute, nostalgia, and reverence.

Air Peace Chairman, Dr Allen Onyema delivered a heartfelt address that underscored the airline’s deep commitment to national pride and remembrance. 

He described the fallen athletes as patriots who gave everything to the nation at a time when there were no guarantees of reward, yet played for honour and country. 

He recounted, with emotion, personal encounters with the late Charles Bassey and Peter Rufai, reflecting on missed opportunities to do more before their passing. 

He also spoke passionately about the sacrifices of the 1976 Olympic team, who were recalled on the eve of the Games in Montreal due to Nigeria’s anti-apartheid stance, only to return home to neglect.

Onyema lamented the lack of sustained national recognition for sports icons and reiterated that honouring them is key to reviving true nationalism among the youth. He praised Dr Odegbami’s tireless work in mobilising and advocating for these legends, calling him “a man I will love forever” for his selflessness and resilience.



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