Nigerian airlines suspend planned shutdown after govt intervention

THE Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has put on hold its proposed shutdown of operations following intervention by Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo.

Earlier, on April 15, domestic airlines had warned they would halt operations starting April 20 due to the sharp rise in aviation fuel prices, known as Jet A1.

According to the operators, the cost of Jet A1 surged from about N900 per litre as of February 28 to as high as N3,300 per litre, representing an increase of more than 300 percent. However, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) disputed this claim, stating that its nationwide data shows prices currently range between N1,960 and N2,800 per litre.

Three days after the shutdown threat, Keyamo appealed to the airlines to reconsider their decision. In response, AON convened an emergency meeting on Friday, where members agreed to temporarily suspend the planned strike.

In a communiqué issued by its executive council and board of trustees, the association said the decision followed a formal appeal from the minister urging restraint.

The group described the move as a ‘concessionary but conditional decision,’ noting that it came after extensive deliberations and in recognition of the minister’s intervention.

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AON added that Keyamo acknowledged the operational challenges faced by airlines and appealed for calm amid the ongoing aviation fuel crisis. The minister also assured operators that the Nigerian government is actively addressing the issues and will take immediate steps to resolve them.

Airlines, minister to hold talks

The association further disclosed that a meeting has been scheduled with the minister for April 22 to seek a lasting solution to the crisis.

AON stated that the outcome of this engagement will determine its next line of action, emphasising that the suspension of the shutdown is temporary.

As part of the conditions for suspending the strike, the airlines urged the minister to ensure that government agencies and service providers continue supporting airline operations. They also called for an end to what they described as undue harassment and the demand for upfront payments for services.

The association reiterated that its final decision will depend on the results of the upcoming meeting, which it hopes will produce a balanced and sustainable resolution for all stakeholders.