The Federal Government has appealed to airline operators to exercise restraint over planned increases in airfares or suspension of flight operations following a sharp rise in aviation fuel prices.
In a letter addressed to the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo said the government was aware of a “sudden hike” in Jet A1 fuel from ₦900 per litre as of February 28, 2026, to ₦3,300 per litre as of April 16, 2026—representing an increase of about 300%.
Keyamo warned that while the rising cost of fuel is placing significant pressure on airline operations, any immediate increase in ticket prices would worsen economic hardship for Nigerians, reduce demand, and limit access to air travel.
“Such action would have far-reaching adverse implications for the national economy, disrupt critical mobility and logistics networks, erode public confidence, and undermine the progress recorded under ongoing reforms,” he said.
The minister also urged airlines to reconsider any planned suspension of operations, noting that such a move could further destabilize the aviation sector and the broader economy.
He disclosed that a high-level emergency stakeholders’ meeting has been scheduled for April 22, 2026, in Abuja, bringing together regulators and industry operators to seek a “prompt, practical, and sustainable resolution.” The exact venue and time will be announced later.
Keyamo commended airline operators for their resilience amid rising operational costs, describing the aviation sector as a critical national asset essential to trade, security, employment, and economic integration.
He added that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains committed to ongoing reforms aimed at supporting local operators and stabilizing the sector.
“I wish to formally assure you that the concerns raised have received the full attention of the Federal Government, and we shall take immediate steps to address the issues,” he said.
