Amid rising aviation fuel costs, the Nigerian Federal Government has urged airline operators to refrain from increasing airfares or suspending flights. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo warned that such actions could severely impact the traveling public and the broader economy. In a letter addressed to the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), he highlighted a significant surge in Jet A1 fuel prices, which escalated from ₦900 per litre on February 28 to ₦3,300 per litre by April 16—a staggering 300 percent increase within a matter of weeks.
While acknowledging the financial strain this situation places on airline operators, Keyamo cautioned that immediate fare hikes would limit air travel accessibility and suppress demand. Additionally, halting flights could disrupt logistics, erode public confidence, and undermine ongoing reforms in the aviation sector. To address these concerns, Keyamo announced an emergency high-level stakeholders’ meeting scheduled for April 22 in Abuja, aimed at finding a swift and sustainable resolution. He reassured operators that their concerns were receiving full government attention and that measures would be implemented to tackle the crisis.
Airline operators had previously warned of a potential suspension of operations starting April 20, citing the price surge as “astronomical and unsustainable.” They argued that the increase far exceeded the global crude oil price rise of approximately 30 percent and accused fuel marketers of artificially inflating costs, which threatens the viability of the aviation industry and broader economic stability. In response, the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) attributed the spike to global geopolitical tensions, particularly conflicts in the Middle East that have disrupted supply chains and increased transport costs by up to 50 percent. MEMAN emphasized that aviation fuel requires stricter safety and handling protocols, which contribute to higher distribution costs. They also disputed the claim of ₦3,300 per litre, suggesting that more competitive pricing options are available, and encouraged airlines to consider longer-term supply contracts to stabilize costs.
The government has reiterated that the aviation sector is a strategic national asset essential for trade, security, employment, and economic integration. It has pledged to support local operators as part of broader reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
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