The Senate has invited the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, along with other leading figures in the industry, to appear before the Senate Committee on Aviation for an urgent meeting this week, following widespread complaints over the escalating ticket prices for domestic flights.
The Legislative body criticized the development, stressing that the meeting is intended to identify the factors behind the rising fares and devise prompt, effective measures to stabilize prices ahead of the festivities, thereby easing the burden on air travelers.
At Tuesday’s plenary, Senator AbdulFatai Buhari (APC, Oyo North) introduced a motion of urgent national importance, cautioning that the abrupt increase in airfares is restricting people’s travel opportunities and could lead to major disruption in movement in the days ahead.
Buhari noted that the current cost of a one-way ticket from Abuja to Lagos ranges from ₦400,000 to ₦600,000, which is far beyond what many Nigerians can afford.
He also explained that this situation has created untold hardship for air travelers, who are avoiding road and rail transport due to rising insecurity across the country.
“We need to invite stakeholders of our airline agencies to interact and interrogate the issues. Immediate steps must be taken before the festive period,” the lawmaker said.
After his presentation, the Senate adopted the motion.
Senator Solomon Adeola (APC, Ogun West) added that airlines have already received multiple concessions, especially on the cost of spare parts, and should therefore be held responsible for the recent fare increases.
Adding his voice, Senator Adamu Aliero (APC, Kebbi Central) said it was paramount to summon the minister and other key stakeholders to address the sudden surge in airfares and find a solution.
Similarly, Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi (APC, Ebonyi North) condemned the 400 percent increase as unacceptable, urging the Aviation Minister to take decisive action and advocating for the creation of a national carrier.
However, Senator Orji Kalu (APC, Abia North) attempted to defend the fare hikes by citing escalating operational expenses and the high cost of spare parts. The argument drew strong criticism from many lawmakers.
