Adedayo Olawuyi, the Chief Commercial Officer of United Nigeria Airlines, has highlighted the pressing need for the Federal Government to reduce aviation charges and taxes to make air travel more affordable for Nigerians. Speaking at the AeroWest conference in Lagos, Olawuyi addressed the topic of the real costs associated with running an aviation business, emphasizing that high operational costs are significantly driving up ticket prices.

Olawuyi pointed out that domestic airlines are currently facing a myriad of challenges, particularly the mismatch between ticket pricing in naira and the substantial expenses incurred in foreign currencies. This situation leads to significant financial losses for airlines, as they struggle to maintain profitability amidst rising costs. He stated, "How many of you would take a loan of 30% to invest in a business that gives you less than 5% profit? That is a pressing issue for airlines in Africa, specifically in Nigeria, the cost of financing."

The airline executive further elaborated on the high costs associated with pilot training and the scarcity of qualified pilots, which has resulted in some airlines grounding their aircraft due to a lack of personnel. He noted that the absence of local maintenance and repair facilities forces airlines to send their aircraft abroad for servicing, further exacerbating their financial burdens.

Fuel prices have also surged dramatically, with airlines experiencing a jump from N900 per litre in December 2025 to N3,000 in 2026. This steep increase in fuel costs is another factor that airlines must contend with, ultimately passing some of these expenses onto consumers. Olawuyi emphasized that while operational costs are rising, safety remains a top priority, and any attempts to cut costs must not compromise this essential aspect of aviation.

He underscored the need for a collaborative approach among all stakeholders in the aviation sector, stating, "There is not a single part of this puzzle that can be fixed by just one person. The government cannot fix it alone, the regulators cannot fix it alone, and the airlines themselves cannot fix it alone." He called for cooperation among airlines, government bodies, and tourism operators to enhance connectivity and improve the overall landscape of air travel in West and Central Africa.

Olawuyi concluded by addressing the realities of operating in a challenging market, noting that airlines must adapt to the unique demands of various routes. He remarked, "West Africa has many thin routes. Airlines must consider different aircraft sizes and types that will help them remain profitable on every sector they fly. It becomes challenging to operate on thin markets with an aircraft like a 737 when the maximum number of passengers available on that route is only four."