Reps seek cut in airfares ahead of Yuletide

House of Representatives

Kindly share this story:

The House of Representatives has raised concern over the steep rise in domestic airfares ahead of the 2025 Yuletide season, warning that the trend poses significant security risks as millions of Nigerians prepare to travel across the country.

During Thursday’s plenary, the House urged the Federal Government to introduce tax reliefs for airline operators and enforce a 50 per cent reduction in airport charges during festive periods to cushion the financial burden on travellers.

The resolution followed the adoption of amendments to a motion of urgent public importance titled “The exorbitant rise of airline ticket cost and the consequential impact on security of lives, air ambulance cost,” sponsored by Abia lawmaker, Obinna Aguocha.

For years, domestic air travel in Nigeria has been plagued by recurring cost spikes—particularly weeks before Christmas—driven by surging demand, rising jet fuel prices, scarcity of foreign exchange for aircraft maintenance, and a shrinking number of operational airlines.

As the festive season approaches, many travellers face last-minute fare hikes, forcing them to abandon air travel for the highways, despite widespread security concerns on major roads.

Speaking on the motion, Aguocha stressed that Christmas remains a period of reunion and joy for families, but warned that the 2025 celebrations are being threatened by harsh economic realities.

He noted that the sharp increase in domestic airfares has effectively priced many Nigerians out of travelling home for the holidays.

According to him, the current pricing environment has created “an economic barrier” preventing families from uniting during the festive season despite its cultural importance.

While acknowledging the operational challenges facing airlines—including high Jet A1 costs and severe exchange-rate volatility—Aguocha urged operators to consider the broader national impact of their pricing models.

He said, “The insatiable pursuit of profit should not come at the expense of the cultural bonds that define us as Nigerians. Temporarily reducing fares during this critical period would demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility and national solidarity. Such an act would reaffirm to all citizens that the journey home is a fundamental right, accessible to every Nigerian, regardless of financial status.”

Aguocha further cautioned that the airfare trend is undermining national cohesion.

“The unprecedented rise in air travel costs is not a mere anomaly in the market. It poses a direct threat to the traditions that unite our society during this cherished festive season,” he said.

Following the adoption of the motion, the House directed the Central Bank of Nigeria to prioritise the allocation of foreign exchange at concessionary rates to airline operators.

It also mandated its Committee on Aviation to interface with the operators and the executive arm of government, and to report back within seven days for further legislative action.

Dirisu, has over 12 years experience covering political parties, National Assembly, sports, transportation, etc, and currently works with The PUNCH

Kindly share this story:

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: [email protected]

UPDATE NEWS: Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25Million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, 👉 click here to find out how it work (Be sure to ask for evidence of clients that have benefitted from this)

Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The Punch Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!

Stay in the know—fast. Get instant alerts, breaking headlines, and exclusive stories with the Punch News App. Download now and never miss a beat.