Reps Urge FG to Slash Aviation Taxes by 50% to Address Soaring Airfares

The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to reduce aviation taxes and airport charges by 50 percent as part of urgent measures to curb the spike in domestic airfares ahead of the Christmas travel season.

The resolution was adopted during Thursday’s plenary following a motion moved by Obi Aguocha, a Labour Party member representing Abia State. Aguocha warned that “exorbitant” airfare increases have placed immense pressure on Nigerians seeking to reunite with their families during the festive period.

He said the unprecedented rise in ticket prices is undermining the cultural significance of Christmas, traditionally a period of reunification and celebration.

“The surge in air travel costs is not just a market fluctuation. It threatens the traditions that bind our society during this cherished season,” he said, adding that while airline operators face rising fuel prices and currency volatility, pricing decisions must reflect broader national considerations.

Aguocha argued that reducing aviation taxes would demonstrate national solidarity and ensure that travel remains accessible to citizens, regardless of their financial status. He reminded lawmakers that the government intervened last year to stabilize road transport costs and urged similar support for the aviation sector, which plays a critical role in connectivity.

During the debate, legislators offered diverse perspectives.
Clement Jimbo (APC, Akwa Ibom) said operators “should be called to order,” urging the minister of aviation, Festus Keyamo, to address what he described as unjustifiable fare hikes.
Auwalu Gwalabe (PDP, Bauchi) cited rising fuel and landing costs and called for reduced operational charges.
Mark Esset (APC, Akwa Ibom) accused airlines of exploiting travellers during festive periods, while Ngozi Okolie (Delta) said improvements in road infrastructure would reduce pressure on air travel demand.

Jonathan Gaza (SDP, Nasarawa) cautioned against excessive regulation in a capitalist economy, noting that import-dependent aircraft maintenance drives costs.
Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda opposed subsidy calls, arguing that insecurity on major highways is pushing more Nigerians to fly, naturally increasing prices.

Despite these divergent views, lawmakers agreed on the need for immediate intervention. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu ruled on the amendment urging the Federal Government to reduce aviation taxes and airport charges by half to ease the burden on travellers.

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo recently attributed high domestic airfares to aircraft scarcity and limited maintenance facilities, emphasizing that the government cannot legally cap ticket prices.

Similarly, Obiorah Okonkwo, Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, asked the National Assembly to eliminate multiple taxation, describing it as a key driver of high airfares.