The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced plans to address the frequent rise in airfare costs. On Monday, Chris Najomo, the acting director-general of the NCAA, disclosed the establishment of a committee dedicated to reducing airfares.
The move is in response to concerns about the escalating air travel prices, particularly on international routes. In October 2023, the House of Representatives directed its aviation committee to investigate the steep surge in global flight prices and subpar service, especially by foreign airlines operating in Nigeria.
Honourable Moshood Olarewaju Oshun raised the issue and emphasised international airlines’ need to tackle excessive airfares. Oshun pointed out that neighbouring West African countries like Ghana and the Benin Republic offer more reasonable fares. He criticised these airlines’ poor services and outdated aircraft despite their high prices.
Expressing concern for the impact on the economy, Oshun warned that without intervention, it would become difficult for average Nigerians to afford international travel. Despite these warnings, exorbitant air travel costs plague Nigerians, amongst other economic hardships.
Najomo, in a video press release shared on the NCAA’s official channel, stated, “It has come to the notice of this authority about the increase and high cost of airfare, especially on international travels.
And the NCAA, in the view of trying to make sure that these airfares are brought down, has decided to set up a high-powered committee, which will look at all the variances and how we can bring these fares down. We’ve met with the airlines and other stakeholders and agencies. We will make sure that this is done.”
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