Nigeria’s airfare war: How state-backed competition is distorting the market and threatening industry sustainability

By Fred Chukwuelobe
A fierce airfare war is unfolding in Nigeria’s aviation industry. While passengers are understandably celebrating the sharp decline in ticket prices, industry stakeholders are increasingly worried about the long-term consequences of a battle many consider economically unsustainable.
At the centre of the controversy are allegations that some airlines benefiting from substantial state government support are offering fares that appear disconnected from the realities of airline operating costs. The result is a pricing environment that may delight travellers today but could ultimately threaten the stability of the industry tomorrow.
For many passengers, the debate is...