Nigerian airlines suspend planned shutdown after Keyamo’s intervention
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have temporarily suspended their planned shutdown of operations following the intervention of Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace development.
The airlines had earlier announced plans to halt operations from April 20 over the sharp rise in the cost of aviation fuel, known as Jet A1.
According to the operators, the price of Jet A1 surged from N900 per litre as of February 28 to about N3,300 per litre, marking an increase of over 300 percent. However, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) disputed the claim, stating that its nationwide survey shows prices currently range between N1,960 and N2,800 per litre.
Following the threat, Keyamo appealed to the airlines to reconsider their decision.
After an emergency meeting on Friday, the AON announced that it would temporarily suspend the planned shutdown.
In a communiqué signed by its executive council and board of trustees, the association said the decision was made after receiving a letter from the minister urging restraint.
“The decision was reached following robust deliberations… in consideration of an intervention the association received through a letter of appeal from the minister calling for a stay of action,” the group said.
The airlines noted that the minister acknowledged their challenges and assured them that the federal government is taking steps to address the crisis.
Meeting scheduled over fuel crisis
The AON also disclosed that it will meet with Keyamo on April 22 to discuss possible solutions, adding that the outcome will determine its next line of action.
It said the suspension of the shutdown is conditional on the meeting, which is expected to provide a “lasting and win-win solution” for all parties.
As part of its conditions, the association urged the minister to ensure that government agencies and service providers continue to support airline operations, avoid harassment, and halt demands for upfront payments.
Meanwhile, the NMDPRA stated on April 17 that Nigeria currently has a 74-day supply of aviation fuel.
