FRI APRIL 17 2026-theGBJournal| As Nigeria’s aviation sector sits on the brink of disruption over a staggering 300 percent increase in Jet A1 fuel prices, the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has formally appealed to the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) to hold off on both fare hikes and a planned suspension of flight operations, warning of severe economic consequences.
In a letter dated April 16, 2026, the minister acknowledged the intense pressure facing airlines following the sharp rise in aviation fuel costs—from N900 per litre in late February to N3,300 currently.
While commending operators for maintaining services under difficult conditions, Keyamo urged restraint, stressing that any immediate increase in ticket prices would deepen hardship for Nigerians and potentially reduce demand for air travel.
He also cautioned against suspending operations, noting that such a move would disrupt critical mobility networks, weaken public confidence, and stall ongoing reforms in the aviation sector under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to the minister, aviation remains a strategic national asset vital for trade, security, and economic integration.
To address the crisis, the Federal Government has scheduled an emergency stakeholders’ meeting for April 22 in Abuja.
The meeting will bring together key industry players and regulators to develop immediate and sustainable solutions to the fuel price shock threatening the sector.
With tensions rising and timelines tightening, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether dialogue can prevent a shutdown that could ripple across Nigeria’s already strained economy.
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