Jet fuel hits N3,300/litre, Nigerian govt asks airlines to avoid fare increase

Aviation Minister, Mr Festus Keyamo, has called on domestic carriers to avoid raising ticket prices or shutting down operations despite the steep rise in Jet A1 fuel costs.

The Nigerian government urged the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) to show restraint in adjusting airfares and to shelve any plans to suspend services, even as operational pressures mount due to escalating fuel prices.

In a letter dated April 16, 2026, addressed to the AON president, Mr Keyamo acknowledged the significant challenges airlines are facing, particularly the sharp increase in aviation fuel prices.

He revealed that the cost of Jet A1 has jumped from N900 per litre as of February 28, 2026, to N3,300 per litre, marking a 300 percent rise within a short period.

The minister praised airline operators for continuing to operate under such tough conditions, stressing that the aviation industry remains vital to trade, national security, and economic integration under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

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However, he cautioned against immediate fare hikes, noting that such moves would place additional strain on Nigerians and could limit access to air travel.

“Any sudden increase in ticket prices would create serious hardship for passengers and could also weaken demand,” Keyamo stated.

He further advised airlines to reconsider any plans to halt operations, warning that such decisions could disrupt logistics, erode public confidence, and stall ongoing sector reforms.

Keyamo also assured operators that the government is actively working to address their concerns, announcing a high-level emergency stakeholders’ meeting scheduled for April 22, 2026, in Abuja.

The meeting will bring together key industry stakeholders and regulators to develop practical and lasting solutions to the crisis.

Reaffirming the government’s position, the minister emphasised its commitment to supporting the aviation sector, highlighting its critical role in driving national development and economic growth.