Nigerian Airlines to Suspend Operations Over Fuel Costs

Nigerian airlines have announced plans to suspend operations on April 20, 2026, due to the escalating costs of aviation fuel, specifically Jet A1. The decision, communicated in a letter dated April 14, 2026, by Abdulmunaf Sarina, highlights the increasing difficulty in sustaining operations amid rising fuel prices.

Airlines accuse the fuel market of taking advantage of the situation by arbitrarily increasing prices, which further compounds the financial strain on airlines already grappling with high operational costs. The impending shutdown is expected to significantly disrupt air travel across the country, affecting passenger and cargo movement and broader economic activities.

Aviation stakeholders have repeatedly raised concerns about the volatility of jet fuel prices, which account for a substantial portion of airline operational expenses. They argue that without urgent government intervention to stabilize prices and provide support mechanisms, the viability of domestic airlines is severely threatened.

The warning of a shutdown indicates potential ripple effects across sectors reliant on air transport, including tourism and business travel.