Nigerian airlines seeking Tinubu’s intervention over multiple taxes, rising costs — Onyema

Air Peace Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, has disclosed that Nigerian airline operators are seeking a meeting with President Bola Tinubu over multiple taxes, regulatory charges, and rising operational costs threatening the survival of domestic carriers.

Speaking during an interview on Arise News on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, Onyema said the aviation sector is facing severe challenges driven by high aviation fuel prices, expensive loans, and multiple government charges.

According to him, the crisis is part of a wider global challenge worsened by the ongoing tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have pushed up aviation fuel costs worldwide.

“No Nigerian airline is smiling now. We’ve all borrowed billions just to buy fuel and keep flying,” Onyema said.

He noted that more than 70 airlines have collapsed in Nigeria over the years, describing the country’s airline mortality rate as one of the highest in the world.

The Air Peace boss stressed that operators still need direct engagement with the President to address pressing concerns.

“We are seeking an appointment with the President. He needs to hear from us and understand the pain points affecting airlines,” he stated.

Onyema particularly criticised the five per cent Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) imposed by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), arguing that the levy unfairly burdens airlines.

“If I charge ₦100,000, NCAA takes five per cent. Aviation itself does not give you five per cent gain, yet they take it,” he added.

He called on President Tinubu to establish an Aviation Taxes and Charges Review Committee to reassess levies imposed on airlines and prevent further collapses within the industry.

Onyema warned that the failure of airlines would have serious economic consequences, including massive job losses and financial risks for banks that have provided loans to operators.