Nigeria’s largest carrier, Air Peace, has announced the creation of 1,000 new graduate jobs under its 2025/2026 Graduate Trainee Programme, a major boost for youth employment in the country.

The airline explained that the initiative was inspired by the Federal Government’s suspension of the 4 per cent Free on Board (FOB) levy on imported goods — a policy reversal that has been widely applauded across industries.

The levy, initially introduced by Customs, had sparked nationwide backlash from manufacturers, importers, and clearing agents, who argued it would worsen inflation, disrupt trade, and weaken Nigeria’s investment climate. Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, confirmed its suspension, noting that it was necessary to safeguard economic stability and trade competitiveness.

In a statement on Wednesday, Air Peace Chairman, Allen Onyema, hailed President Bola Tinubu and Minister Edun for their decisive intervention, describing the move as “a lifeline for the

aviation industry.”

Onyema said:

“This suspension removes a heavy burden that could have crippled airlines and triggered massive job losses. In turn, Air Peace is reciprocating by creating 1,000 fresh graduate jobs for young Nigerians.”

He added that the development demonstrates how government–private sector collaboration can deliver tangible impact:

“If further supportive measures like this come from the Federal Government, thousands more jobs will be created in aviation. This is how partnerships transform a nation.”

The Graduate Trainee Programme will equip young graduates with practical industry exposure, mentorship, and essential skills to thrive in aviation and allied sectors.

Eligibility requirements include:

Applicants must be 30 years old or younger.

Minimum of Second Class Lower (2:2) in any discipline from a recognised university.

Valid NYSC discharge certificate, exemption, or exclusion letter.

Passion, adaptability, and a strong willingness to learn.

Applications are open until 30 September 2025 via flyairpeace.com/graduate-trainee-program or by scanning the QR code on the official programme flier.