Nigeria’s worsening aviation fuel crisis is pushing many airlines to the brink, with stakeholders warning that inconsistent policies and poor strategic planning could further destabilize the sector.
Speaking during an interview on Arise TV, former Tourism Manager of Nigeria Airways, Irene Helen Efue, said the country’s policy framework has failed to adequately address the complex realities surrounding the aviation industry and fuel supply challenges.
Efue noted that policy formulation in Nigeria often overlooks critical aspects of implementation, especially in sectors that require broad national coordination and long term planning.
According to her, “Policy is very strategic and we do not have policies that capture all the angles of the issue.” She added that the size and complexity of Nigeria also make problem solving more difficult, stressing that many of the strategies being adopted are not aligned with global standards and realities.
The aviation expert further described the emergence of the Dangote Refinery as “phenomenal,” but argued that authorities failed to fully examine the wider implications of the refinery’s operations on key sectors such as aviation.
She raised concerns over questions of economic interest and national benefit, asking, “Who does the loyalty of the Dangote refinery belong to?” Her remarks appeared to reflect growing concerns among stakeholders over fuel pricing, supply control and the broader impact of private sector dominance in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.
The soaring cost of aviation fuel, popularly known as Jet A1, has continued to pile pressure on domestic airlines, forcing many operators to battle rising operational expenses, increasing ticket fares and shrinking profit margins. Some airlines are also struggling to maintain regular flight schedules amid fears that the situation could worsen if urgent measures are not introduced.
Efue stressed the need for Nigeria to adopt more comprehensive and forward looking policies capable of addressing the realities of the aviation and energy sectors. She maintained that stronger coordination between government institutions and private sector players would be critical to ensuring stability in fuel supply and sustaining the country’s aviation industry.
