National News – Nigeria’s domestic aviation sector is on the brink of disruption as airline operators warn they may suspend flights nationwide starting Thursday, April 30, 2026, over soaring aviation fuel costs.

The warning, issued by the Airline Operators of Nigeria, follows failed negotiations with the Federal Government and fuel marketers in Abuja last week.

At the heart of the crisis is the sharp spike in aviation fuel, which has jumped from about ₦900 per litre to between ₦2,700 and ₦3,500 in recent weeks.

Operators argue the increase is disproportionate compared to global trends, even amid geopolitical tensions affecting oil supply.

Despite government intervention, including a proposed 30 percent reduction in aviation-related taxes, airlines insist the measure does not address the root problem—fuel pricing.

Industry leaders say carriers are now flying mainly to cover fuel expenses, raising safety and sustainability concerns.

Locally, frequent flyers and business travelers in cities like Lagos and Abuja are already expressing anxiety, with many rushing to adjust travel plans.

Travel agencies report a spike in inquiries and tentative cancellations, reflecting growing uncertainty.

The implications could be far-reaching. A shutdown would disrupt business travel, delay cargo movement, and potentially trigger job losses across aviation and allied sectors.

It could also place additional pressure on road transport, raising safety risks and travel time nationwide.

This crisis exposes a deeper structural weakness in Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem—overdependence on volatile fuel supply chains without adequate buffers.

Without swift regulatory intervention or pricing reforms, the shutdown threat may not just be a one-off disruption but a recurring industry pattern.

As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on the government and fuel marketers to reach a last-minute resolution and avert a nationwide aviation standstill.