Nigerian airline operators have ruled out seeking government subsidies, instead calling for fair and stable pricing of aviation fuel to sustain the industry.

The spokesperson for the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Obiora Okonkwo, made this known during an interview on Channels Television, where he raised concerns over the rising and unpredictable cost of aviation fuel.

“We’re not looking for any government grant; we’re just saying, let’s have the fuel at a reasonable price,” Okonkwo said.

He emphasized that aviation is a key driver of economic activity, noting that the sector plays a vital role in facilitating commerce and mobility, not just serving a privileged few.

“Aviation is a catalyst. It’s an enabler. It’s not just a business of the elite,” he added.

Okonkwo compared Nigeria’s support for the aviation sector during the COVID-19 pandemic with global efforts, pointing out that local operators received minimal assistance.

“The entire ecosystem of aviation was given about N4 billion, which was insignificant. But we survived, we were resilient,” he said.

However, he warned that the current volatility in aviation fuel pricing poses a more serious threat to the sector’s survival. He explained that while fuel may sometimes be available at expected rates, it often becomes scarce and later reappears at inflated prices, creating what he described as a quasi-black market.

Okonkwo cautioned that any disruption in aviation operations could have widespread economic consequences, including job losses and financial strain on the banking sector.

“When aviation shuts down, the economy shuts down. When operators cannot service their loans, banks will suffer,” he warned.

He called for stronger regulatory oversight and urged fuel marketers to identify those responsible for price manipulation. He also stated that airline operators are prepared to take collective action, including blacklisting suppliers found to be engaging in unfair practices.

“If regulation cannot identify those responsible, marketers should look within and point them out. We are ready to blacklist such players,” he said.

Airlines Reject Subsidies, Demand Stable Aviation Fuel Pricing

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