From Skyward Dreams to Soaring Realities: Air Peace Celebrates Ike Gold and Her Community’s Historic Milestone
In a show of warmth, connection, and community pride, West Africa’s largest airline, Air Peace, journeyed deep into the heart of Abia State to honour Ms. Ike Gold Chinyere—the first lady from Umuerim Umukparo in Mbala, Umunneochi LGA, to fly by air, and with Air Peace.
A graduate of Nursing Science from Abia State University and an entrepreneurial farmer, Ms. Ike Gold captured hearts across Nigeria when she took to social media in late March 2025 to chronicle her very first flight experience. Her heartfelt post, brimming with wonder and unfiltered awe, quickly went viral, drawing attention to her humble background and the profound significance of a moment many take for granted.
She spoke of excitement mixed with nerves, and the supportive role her father played—guiding her through the airport, watching her board, and cheering from afar. “When we were on air, I could see the sky differently,” she recalled, eyes still wide with the memory. “Down here, we look up to the sky. But when you’re flying, it’s almost like the sky is beneath you. I couldn’t stop thinking about how such a heavy plane could stay up there.”
This moment, years in the making, had its roots in childhood whimsy. Ike fondly remembered walking with her father and seeing aircraft streak the sky above their community. “I used to say they were throwing down gifts like in Christmas stories,” she laughed. It was a fantasy that bloomed into reality—one that earned a celebration not just for her, but for an entire community.
In response to the massive traction and heartfelt recognition her post on social media had garnered, Air Peace assembled a delegation and journeyed to Umuerim Umukparo. The team was met with a jubilant welcome—drums beating, the Egede dance troupe in full display, and townspeople flooding the community roads in awe and gratitude. For Ike, it was surreal. For her family, it was history. “I didn’t know what to expect,” she said with emotion. “That you people came to my village just because of me… I’m grateful. The community is so happy.”
The visit was more than symbolic. During their interaction, the Air Peace delegation surprised Ms. Ike with two complimentary return Economy tickets to any domestic destination of her choice, along with branded souvenirs. Visibly stunned, she expressed heartfelt thanks to the airline and its Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema. “I never expected this,” she said, smiling through tears. “Air Peace is the biggest, not just in Africa, but worldwide.”
In a heartwarming extension of generosity, Air Peace also announced an additional gift: six complimentary domestic return tickets to six women selected from Ike Gold’s local community. The gesture, aimed at empowering more women to experience air travel for the first time, resonated deeply with the people of Umuerim Umukparo. It was a powerful moment of inclusion and encouragement—proof that one person’s milestone can open doors for many. When asked where she would like to explore next, Ike didn’t hesitate—Lagos again, and Abuja, a city she has long dreamt of. “I’ve never been there before,” she said, eyes gleaming with the same excitement that made her story go viral in the first place.
Her father, shared his pride and joy. “I always loved Air Peace, and when it was time for my daughter to travel, I insisted she fly with them,” he explained. Her mother, equally moved, extended her gratitude. “For you to come here, to honour our daughter—it means so much. We thank Dr. Onyema and we thank God for journey mercies.”
In his message, Dr. Allen Onyema noted that “Ms. Gold Chinyere Ike’s journey represents exactly why we do what we do. Air Peace was founded not only to provide safe and affordable air travel, but to make flying accessible to everyday Nigerians—women, men, young people—regardless of their background,” adding “we believe that when people move, dreams move with them.
Ms. Ike’s story is more than a viral moment—it’s a portrait of progress, of dreams that take off despite the odds. In amplifying her voice and investing in her community, Air Peace continues to champion stories that matter. This campaign, quietly nestled within the airline’s extensive CSR framework, reaffirms its commitment to inclusion, community impact, and lifting ordinary lives in extraordinary ways. For Air Peace, flying is not just about where you’re going—it’s about who you become when you finally take off
