Government Introduces Emergency Aviation Measures
Nigeria’s government has introduced emergency measures to stabilise the aviation sector. The policy caps jet fuel prices and allows airlines to buy fuel on credit.
The move responds to rising costs that now threaten flight operations across the country.
NMDPRA Sets Price Range for Jet Fuel
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority introduced new guidelines to control aviation fuel prices.
In Lagos, jet fuel will now sell between ₦1,760 and ₦1,988 per litre. In Abuja, the price range stands at ₦1,809 to ₦2,037 per litre.
Authorities based these benchmarks on market data recorded between April 17 and April 23.
However, officials warned that global market pressures may still affect prices. They pointed to geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing U.S.–Iran situation, as a key risk factor.
Fuel Price Surge Triggers Government Response
The intervention follows emergency talks between government officials and aviation stakeholders.
Airlines recently reported a sharp increase in jet fuel prices of more than 270 percent. The spike forced operators to raise ticket prices and reduced expectations for flight capacity.
Presidency Orders Relief Measures
Bola Tinubu approved a 30 percent debt relief for airlines owed to aviation agencies.
He also directed fuel marketers, airlines, and regulators to agree on a pricing framework within 72 hours. The goal is to prevent disruptions in the aviation sector.
Airlines Get Credit Window for Fuel Payments
As part of the intervention, authorities granted airlines a 30-day credit period for fuel payments.
The aviation ministry will also mediate disputes between airlines and fuel suppliers. This step aims to ensure smooth implementation of the new pricing system.
Industry Reforms Target Supply Chain Issues
A technical committee under the NMDPRA proposed wider reforms to improve transparency in the fuel supply chain.
The committee recommended that fuel marketers sell directly to airlines within the approved price band. This move aims to reduce middlemen and lower costs.
Regulators also plan to engage with Dangote Petroleum Refinery over pricing concerns linked to international jet fuel benchmarks.
Airport Fuel Supply May Be Streamlined
Authorities are also considering stricter validation for airside fuel distributors. Only companies with proper infrastructure may continue operations at airports.
This policy could reduce the number of suppliers and improve efficiency in fuel delivery.
Naira-for-Crude Plan Under Consideration
Officials are also reviewing the inclusion of jet fuel in Nigeria’s naira-for-crude initiative.
If approved, the policy could reduce exposure to foreign exchange volatility and lower operational costs for airlines.
Government Seeks Stability in Aviation Sector
The reforms reflect growing urgency to stabilise Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Policymakers aim to prevent flight disruptions and restore confidence in air travel. They also want to ease economic pressure on airlines as fuel costs remain volatile.
