Nigerian Airlines Threaten Shutdown Over Fuel Prices

Nigerian airlines have announced a potential nationwide shutdown beginning April 30, 2026, if the government does not intervene to address the soaring costs of aviation fuel, which have increased by 300% since February. Allen Onyema, Vice President of Airline Operations Nigeria, emphasized that the current operational conditions are unsustainable, warning that without drastic measures, no airline will operate in the country within the next seven days.

The airlines have engaged with the Federal Government, including a recent meeting with Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, but no concrete solutions were reached. Airlines are requesting a suspension of aviation taxes and fees for at least six months and the introduction of a non-taxable fuel surcharge to stabilize the sector.

They have also written to the government on April 21, 2026, seeking urgent relief measures. The current fuel prices range from N2,700 to N3,500 per liter, significantly impacting operational costs.