National News – Nigeria’s aviation sector is facing mounting pressure as the Federal Government, led by Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, moves to stabilise soaring jet fuel prices that now threaten airline operations.

The intervention follows urgent meetings in Abuja involving regulators, airline operators, and fuel marketers after costs spiked sharply in April 2026, driven largely by global oil volatility linked to the U.S.-Iran conflict.

Authorities are pushing for a 30-day credit facility for airlines and direct fuel sales to operators, hoping to ease cash flow constraints and prevent service disruptions.

Under the proposed pricing framework, aviation fuel could range between ₦1,760 and ₦2,037 per litre, though industry players warn actual costs often exceed ₦3,000 after logistics.

For airlines, the crisis is already biting hard. Operators say fueling a single domestic flight now costs as much as ₦7.6 million, a steep rise from earlier in the year.

This surge has forced difficult decisions: absorb losses, increase fares, or cut flight capacity.

Many have chosen to hold fares steady due to weak consumer spending, deepening financial strain.

The situation is further complicated by the role of the Dangote Refinery, which supplies much of the domestic market but is also exporting large volumes of jet fuel to Europe where prices are more attractive.

While this boosts national export earnings, it raises questions locally about supply priorities and pricing fairness.

Stakeholders across the sector are divided. Some industry analysts argue deregulation naturally ties domestic prices to global markets, meaning cheaper fuel is unlikely without structural reforms.

Others insist government must intervene more aggressively to protect a critical sector that supports business travel, trade, and connectivity.

Public reaction has been mixed, with travellers expressing concern over potential fare hikes and cancellations, especially in busy hubs like Lagos and Abuja.

Aviation workers also fear job losses if airlines scale down operations.

Ultimately, the government’s response—credit support, pricing reviews, and possible inclusion of aviation fuel in naira-for-crude deals—may determine whether the crisis stabilises or escalates into widespread disruption across Nigeria’s skies.