The Nigerian government plans to end the practice of foreign airlines selling tickets in dollars, according to Yinka Folami, president of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies. Speaking at a cultural and tourism program in Lagos, Folami called the sale of tickets in foreign currency “a crime against the economy” and said the move is intended to ease pressure on the naira and foreign‑exchange markets while bolstering the country’s aviation sector.
Folami noted that the practice, which violates existing regulations, has long troubled travel agencies. He expressed optimism that government action will soon make it a thing of the past, allowing the industry to focus on supporting a strong Nigerian carrier capable of competing with foreign airlines. He praised Air Peace for launching routes from Lagos and Abuja to London and urged Nigerians to back the airline’s success as a patriotic duty, emphasizing that a robust national carrier is essential for a thriving aviation industry.
Ending ticket sales in foreign currency is expected to benefit Nigeria’s economy by reducing demand for foreign exchange and promoting the growth of local airlines, a key contributor to economic development. With government support, the aviation sector should see significant improvements, offering more affordable and convenient travel options for Nigerians and strengthening overall economic stability.
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