The International Air Transport Association, IATA, has described Nigeria as one of the most expensive countries in the world for airline operations, citing high taxes, charges, and operational costs that continue to strain local carriers.
Speaking at the IATA Annual General Meeting in Brazil, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, Mr Kamil Al-Awadhi, acknowledged ongoing reforms by Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, but said airlines still face significant cost pressures that limit profitability and growth.
Mr. Al-Awadhi urged ECOWAS member states to implement a proposed 25 per cent reduction in aviation taxes and charges, noting that lower costs would make air travel more affordable, boost passenger traffic, and strengthen the competitiveness of airlines across West Africa.
The Association says creating a more business-friendly operating environment remains critical to unlocking the aviation sector’s potential as a driver of trade, tourism, and economic development in the region.
Reporting By Nosa Aituamen