Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has said the Federal Government cannot directly intervene in the rising cost of flight tickets across the country. He explained that airlines operate in a deregulated sector, meaning the government does not control how much they charge. According to him, prices depend on market forces such as fuel cost, foreign exchange rates, and operational expenses.

Keyamo noted that aviation fuel and aircraft maintenance costs have become very expensive, especially with the high dollar rate. He said airlines are struggling to stay in business, so ticket prices naturally go up to match their running costs. The minister added that interfering in pricing could force some carriers to shut down, which would worsen the situation.

However, he assured Nigerians that the government is working on long-term solutions to reduce operational costs. These include improving local fuel production, supporting maintenance facilities in Nigeria, and creating a more stable business environment. Keyamo said these steps would eventually help airlines lower their prices naturally without government force.

Despite the explanations, many Nigerians continue to complain about the rising cost of air travel, especially during the festive season. Some travellers say domestic flights have become too expensive for average citizens. Keyamo urged the public to remain patient, stressing that only market improvements—not price controls—can bring lasting change to airfare costs.