FG Urges Airlines to Avoid Flight Suspension Amid Fuel Surge

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo SAN, has made an appeal to domestic airlines to halt their planned flight suspensions amid a sharp rise in aviation fuel prices. In a letter dated April 16, 2026, Keyamo acknowledged the operational difficulties faced by airlines, noting that the cost of Jet A1 fuel has risen by 300%, from ₦900 per liter in February to approximately ₦3,300 per liter.

Airlines, represented by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), have warned that they may suspend flight services next week if the situation does not improve. Keyamo emphasized the importance of the aviation sector as a critical national asset for trade, security, employment, and economic integration, urging airlines to exercise restraint and not pass the increased costs onto passengers, which could further reduce demand for air travel.

He warned that such actions could disrupt the economy and undermine public confidence in ongoing sector reforms. A high-level emergency stakeholder meeting is scheduled for April 22, 2026, in Abuja to address the crisis.