Achimugu Links Soaring Airfares to Systemic Pressures, Calls for Honest Dialogue
The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Mr. Michael Achimugu, says high airfares experienced in the country are the result of a system under pressure, not a problem that can be blamed on airlines alone.
Achimugu said lasting solutions will only come from honest, data-driven conversations involving government, operators and regulators.
Speaking at an Aviation Town Hall organised by Avaero Capital Partners, with the theme: “High Air Fares: Are Airlines Really the Problem?”
Achimugu warned that focusing blame on one segment of the industry oversimplifies what he described as a deeply layered challenge.
According to him, when airlines and government repeatedly point to specific cost drivers, improvements in those areas should reflect, even slightly, in ticket prices.
When that does not happen, he said, public trust suffers and the debate goes in circles.
Achimugu drew a clear line between seasonal fare increases, especially during the December travel rush, and the broader issue of airfares throughout the year.
Reiterating his opposition to sharp festive-period hikes, he noted that such increases have persisted over the years regardless of improvements in operating conditions.
The regulatory spokesman also rejected claims that gthe overnment has been indifferent to the sector, pointing to what he described as strong political will under the current administration.
He cited the resolution of the Nigeria Air controversy, the aviation reform agenda of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and direct government support in securing international routes for domestic carriers, including Air Peace, now flying beyond Africa.
On structural reforms, Achimugu said longstanding aircraft leasing challenges have largely been resolved, arguing that issues once blamed for high fares should by now have eased pressure on ticket prices.
He was, however, critical of airline communication with passengers, saying many disputes at airport terminals stem from poor information sharing rather than outright operational failures.
The NCAA Consumer Protection boss also dismissed claims that multiple taxes drove December fare hikes, insisting there were no new tax increases at the time.
Mr. Achimugu stressed that the NCAA remains committed to working with airlines as partners, while ensuring Nigerian passengers are protected and treated fairly.
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