Former Nigerian Senate President and Governor of Kwara State, Bukola Saraki, has disclosed details of his conversation with Captain Edward Boyo, the Chief Executive Officer of Overland Airways. In a statement released on Monday, Saraki revealed that he urged the airline boss to review the rising cost of airfares on the Lagos–Ilorin and Abuja–Ilorin routes, which have become prohibitively expensive for many Nigerians.
According to Saraki, he appealed to Captain Boyo to consider the economic burden of high airfares on the people of Kwara State. Saraki noted that he reminded the airline CEO of their long-standing relationship and the role Overland Airways played in pioneering and developing the routes during his tenure as governor. The former governor expressed optimism that the airline would take his appeal into consideration, stating that Captain Boyo had promised to review the airfare pricing on the affected routes in the coming weeks.
The development comes amid widespread complaints from Nigerians about the high cost of airfares on several routes nationwide, including the Lagos–Ilorin and Abuja–Ilorin routes. The issue has sparked concerns about the affordability of air travel in Nigeria, with many citizens urging airlines to reconsider their pricing strategies.
Saraki’s intervention is seen as a welcome move, given his influence and experience in the region. As a former governor of Kwara State, he has a deep understanding of the economic and social challenges faced by the people of the state. His efforts to engage with the airline CEO and advocate for more affordable airfares are likely to be viewed as a positive step towards addressing the concerns of Nigerian travelers.
The outcome of Saraki’s conversation with Captain Boyo is expected to be closely watched, particularly by residents of Kwara State who rely on air travel for business and personal purposes. If the airline agrees to review its pricing, it could have a significant impact on the affordability of air travel in the region, making it more accessible to a wider range of people.