Mohamed Garba
Nigerian air travelers are facing the steepest ticket prices across the African continent, according to a recent report by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). The regulatory body attributes this surge to a combination of factors, including fluctuating foreign exchange rates, rising operational costs, and limited competition within the aviation sector.
The NCAA’s analysis indicates that the depreciation of the Nigerian naira against major global currencies has significantly inflated the cost of aviation fuel and aircraft maintenance—expenses typically denominated in foreign currencies. These financial strains are subsequently transferred to passengers through increased airfare prices.
Industry experts highlight that the consolidation of airlines and barriers to entry for new carriers have led to reduced competition, enabling existing airlines to maintain higher fares. This lack of competitive pressure diminishes incentives for price reductions, further burdening consumers.
In response to the NCAA’s findings, the Nigerian government has announced plans to implement policies aimed at stabilizing the foreign exchange market and reducing operational hurdles for airlines. Proposed measures include providing tax reliefs and improving infrastructure to attract new entrants into the market.
Passengers, however, remain skeptical about the timeline for these interventions. Frequent flyer Adeola Ogunleye expressed frustration, stating, “Air travel has become a luxury that many Nigerians can no longer afford. We need swift action to make it accessible again.”
Comparative data reveals that neighboring countries with more stable currencies and competitive aviation markets, such as Ghana and Ethiopia, offer relatively lower airfares. This disparity underscores the urgent need for Nigeria to address the underlying issues inflating ticket prices.
The NCAA emphasizes that without immediate and effective interventions, the high cost of air travel could stifle economic growth, deter tourism, and limit business opportunities within Nigeria. The authority calls for a collaborative effort between the government, industry stakeholders, and financial institutions to create a sustainable and affordable aviation sector.
