Nigeria’s House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to take immediate steps to address the rising cost of aviation fuel, citing mounting financial strain on domestic airlines.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance presented during plenary by Paschal Agbodike, who represents Ihiala Federal Constituency in Anambra State.
Lawmakers noted that Aviation Turbine Kerosene (ATK) constitutes a significant portion of airline operating expenses, estimated at between 40 and 60 per cent, placing considerable pressure on operators already navigating a challenging business environment.
The House expressed concern that several airlines have begun reducing flight frequencies or grounding aircraft in response to escalating costs, leading to reduced capacity within the sector. It also highlighted the combined impact of high jet fuel prices and foreign exchange constraints on the ability of airlines to procure aircraft parts and sustain operations.
According to the lawmakers, continued volatility in aviation fuel pricing poses a risk to the survival of domestic carriers, with potential implications for employment, economic activity, and regional connectivity.
The motion received unanimous support during the session presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
As part of its resolutions, the House called on the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), to develop a price stabilisation framework for jet fuel to ensure more predictable costs for airline operators.
It also mandated its Committees on Aviation, Petroleum Resources (Downstream), and Finance to investigate the persistent rise in aviation fuel prices within two weeks.
In addition, lawmakers directed the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to present an emergency plan aimed at reducing fuel costs within the same timeframe.
The House further urged the Central Bank of Nigeria to prioritise foreign exchange allocation to airlines to ease operational pressures, particularly in maintenance and procurement.
Aviation fuel prices in Nigeria have risen significantly in recent years, driven by global crude oil market fluctuations, limited domestic refining capacity, deregulation within the downstream sector, and persistent foreign exchange challenges. Industry stakeholders note that prices have at times exceeded ₦1,200 per litre, forcing airlines to adjust fares, scale back routes, and, in some cases, suspend operations.