Reps seek 50% reduction in aviation charges

From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja

The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to slash airport charges by 50 per cent and offer tax breaks to aviation companies to make flights cheaper during the festive season.

  It also charged the government to establish a transparent assessment mechanism to create a system to determine the true minimum necessary operational costs for airlines throughout the season, as well as collaborate with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to work closely to prioritise the allocation of foreign exchange at concessionary rates for the airline operators.

The Green chamber also mandated its committee on aviation to interface with airline operators and the executive arm of government on exorbitant cost of air tickets, during the yuletide and report back to it within seven days for further legislative action.

This followed the adoption of a motion under matters of urgent national importance by the member representing Umuahia/Ikwuano Federal Constituency, of Abia State, Obinna Aguocha, on the high cost of air tickets and the impact on security of lives, at yesterday’s plenary.

Aguocha, in his lead debate, stated that the Christmas season is usually a time for reunion by friends and families. However, the lawmaker lamented that rising cost of airline tickets in the country, currently, have made travel during the yuletide very  prohibitive.

According to him, it had become difficult for many people to travel to their homes during this season, “where shared laughter and family connections are meant to thrive and improve our self-worth,” because of the high cost of air tickets.

He said: “Mr Speaker, this motion is an urgent call to airline operators. Aware of the myriad challenges faced by airline operators, ranging from high JetAl fuel prices to excessive currency fluctuations, I implore this House to consider the broader implications of their pricing strategies. The insatiable pursuit of profit should not come at the expense of the cultural bonds that define us as Nigerians.”

He argued that the government “by temporarily reducing fares during this critical period would demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility and national solidarity. Such an act would reaffirm to all citizens that the journey home is a fundamental right, accessible to every Nigerian, regardless of financial status.”

He urged the  Federal Government through the Minister of Aviation “to show decisiveness as they did last year with road transporters in providing support. It is imperative that similar assistance be extended to the aviation sector, which plays a critical role in both family reunification and national connectivity.

“The Nigerian people find themselves at a pivotal moment that demands immediate action. The unprecedented rise in air travel costs is not a mere anomaly in the market. It poses a direct threat to the traditions that unite our society during this cherished festive season.”

Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, ruled that the House Committee on Aviation should meet with airline operators and the Aviation Minister, reporting back within a week for further action.