FG to unveil reforms to curb illegal charter operations
The Federal Government has announced plans to introduce measures aimed at tackling illegal charter operations across the country. This is as Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, reassured Nigerians that airfares will soon become more affordable.
During the third annual aviation stakeholders’ meeting held on Thursday, Keyamo revealed that his ministry is formulating strategies to regulate unauthorised charter operations, an issue that has persisted nationwide. He emphasised the government’s commitment to addressing these concerns to ensure safety and fair competition in the aviation industry.
He also disclosed that airfares—both domestic and international—are expected to decrease. The Minister attributed this to recent international engagements, including the Dublin Aviation Conference and the Cape Town Convention, which the ministry attended earlier this year.
He stated, “We have domestic tickets and we have international tickets. Regarding domestic tickets, limited access to leased aircraft has driven up prices, but our ongoing negotiations at global aviation summits, such as the Dublin Conference, will yield positive outcomes.”
Addressing the high cost of international flights, Keyamo acknowledged that past restrictions on the repatriation of foreign airlines’ funds from Nigeria had significantly impacted ticket prices.
“When we assumed office, there were airlines with a backlog of trapped funds for over three years. It wasn’t just one year or two, but more than three years of trapped revenue. The Central Bank of Nigeria simply did not have the liquidity—the necessary foreign exchange—to remit to these foreign airlines.”
He explained that, as a result, airlines dramatically increased their ticket prices in Nigeria to account for currency devaluation and losses. “Instead of selling a ticket for N2 million, they would charge N7 million, whereas the same ticket in Ghana cost far less.”
However, he noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic policies—such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the move towards a more flexible exchange rate—have helped ease this issue. He added that one of the administration’s priorities was ensuring that foreign airlines no longer restricted lower-priced tickets from Nigerian passengers.
The minister disclosed that discussions with airlines are ongoing, and that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has already engaged with international carriers on this matter. He stated that other key factors influencing ticket prices, including aviation fuel costs and airport charges, were also being considered. “It is not within my power to arbitrarily cut aviation sector revenue, but we are having conversations to see how we can ease the financial burden on passengers,” he clarified.
To boost the aviation industry and support local airlines, Keyamo announced the upcoming introduction of the Fly Nigeria Act. He explained, “The Fly Nigeria Act will prioritise Nigerian carriers for international travel by government officials, ensuring that public funds support our local airlines.”
He also shared an update on an agreement with Emirates, noting that successful negotiations had led to a codeshare partnership between the UAE carrier and Nigeria’s Air Peace. He expressed optimism that further codesharing agreements would follow, which could enhance Nigeria’s aviation sector and create new opportunities for local operators.
The Minister highlighted the government’s continued commitment to bolstering Nigeria’s aviation sector, including efforts to support local airlines in competing on international routes, enhancing aircraft acquisition through dry lease agreements, and improving training for aviation professionals, including pilots and accident investigators. Additionally, plans are in place to develop infrastructure at both federal and state-owned airports.
Addressing regulatory concerns surrounding private jet usage, Keyamo affirmed that new controls would ensure only licensed jets are permitted to transport passengers.
“If you are a high-profile individual, you must not board a private jet unless it is on the official list of licensed aircraft. If something happens, the authorities cannot take responsibility. Every private jet carrying passengers must comply with the same safety measures as commercial flights. No individual, regardless of status, is above this requirement,” he declared.
Furthermore, to boost the aviation industry and support local operators, Keyamo announced plans for the Fly Nigeria Act, which seeks to ensure Nigerian airlines are prioritised for international routes involving government-funded travel.
“We are already working on facilitating new aircraft acquisitions for our local airlines through dry lease agreements, strengthening their ability to compete with international carriers,” he added.
Keyamo also highlighted the government’s commitment to sustainability, stating that Nigeria is working towards achieving the International Civil Aviation Organization’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions in the aviation sector.
Additionally, he outlined initiatives to improve airport infrastructure, including the renovation of existing airports and airstrips in collaboration with state governments, as well as the continued development of state airports to enhance air transport accessibility across Nigeria.
Further, he announced that in an effort to enhance security and passenger safety, the ministry will introduce strict regulations for private jet operations. “If you are a high-profile individual, do not attempt to board a private jet unless it is on the official list of aircraft licensed for commercial operations. If something happens, we cannot be held responsible,” he warned.
He also confirmed that reforms were underway to ensure that all passengers on private charter flights provide proper identification, just as is required for commercial flights. “There must be no double standard. If I, as a Minister, am required to present my ID to board a flight, then so should every individual using a chartered jet.”
Meanwhile, Keyamo reiterated his confidence in a significant drop in airfares, citing ongoing negotiations with international airlines regarding ticket pricing for Nigerian passengers. He pointed to the government’s efforts in clearing a substantial backlog of $800 million in trapped foreign airline funds, a factor that had contributed to inflated ticket prices in the past. With the resolution of this issue and other policy changes, he expressed optimism that air travel costs will decline, making it more affordable for Nigerians.
As part of strategic reforms, Keyamo also highlighted Nigeria’s new codeshare agreement between Emirates and Air Peace, aimed at expanding international travel options for Nigerians. “We hope to see more codesharing agreements in the near future, ensuring our airlines can effectively compete on global routes.”
The minister concluded by stressing the government’s commitment to improving aviation infrastructure, upgrading training facilities for aviation professionals, and enhancing safety regulations.
“We are working to revitalise several airports and airstrips across the country and to support the states in developing their aviation facilities,” he stated.
