- As Return Tickets Exceed ₦700,000, Many Opt for Road Travel Amid Safety Concerns
With Christmas less than a week away and New Year celebrations around the corner, airfares on Southeast routes in Nigeria have surged dramatically, with return tickets exceeding ₦700,000. Travelers heading to Anambra, Enugu, Owerri, and Port Harcourt are facing unprecedented costs, as airlines capitalize on the high demand during the holiday season.
A review of ticket prices on the websites of major airlines, including Air Peace, United Nigeria Airlines, Ibom Air, Arik, and Aero Contractors, shows soaring fares for routes predominantly used by travelers from Christian-dominated southeastern states. These routes, favored due to safety concerns and the holiday rush, have become unaffordable for many.
For instance, United Nigeria Airlines lists a return ticket from Lagos to Anambra at ₦700,000, while Abuja to Owerri costs ₦550,000. Similarly, a one-way Air Peace ticket to Anambra costs ₦285,800, with the return leg priced at ₦387,100. Ibom Air’s flights, while relatively cheaper, still demand ₦152,700 for a one-way trip from Lagos to Uyo.
The spike in prices has driven many travelers to seek alternative transportation. Despite rising fuel costs, road travel offers a more affordable option, with buses and shared vehicles becoming increasingly popular. However, safety concerns persist, especially in the southeastern region.
Speaking to LEADERSHIP, Olumide Ohunayo, General Secretary of the Aviation Round Table Initiative, explained that the fare hikes are seasonal and driven by demand. “This surge happens during flying seasons like Christmas and summer. Prices drop in January when demand decreases,” Ohunayo said.
Daisi Olotu, CEO of Dees Travel and Tour Limited, attributed the price increases to limited capacity and reduced competition on Southeast routes. “Airlines operating these routes have fewer competitors, allowing them to dictate prices. More airlines in the sector would enhance competition and lower fares,” Olotu noted.
He further highlighted the challenges airlines face, including the high cost of aviation fuel, maintenance, and foreign currency-dependent operations. “The aviation sector needs greater capacity to meet demand and reduce pressure on existing carriers,” he added.
As the holiday season approaches, many travelers are left with difficult choices, balancing high costs and safety concerns to reunite with loved ones. The current situation underscores the urgent need for structural reforms and investments in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
