NANTA: The National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies has strongly criticised the growing practice among some foreign airlines operating in Nigeria of pricing and selling flight tickets exclusively in United States dollars. The association described the move as unfair, exclusionary, and contrary to Nigeria’s economic realities, warning that it places undue financial pressure on local travellers and travel agencies.
Growing Concerns Over Dollar-Only Ticketing
NANTA, through statements attributed to its leadership and communicated by aviation correspondent Chinedu Eze, expressed concern that the policy undermines the accessibility of international travel for Nigerians who earn and transact primarily in naira. According to the association, insisting on dollar payments effectively sidelines a large segment of the population who may not have easy access to foreign currency.
The association noted that while airlines often cite challenges such as trapped funds and foreign exchange volatility, transferring the burden entirely to Nigerian consumers is neither sustainable nor equitable. NANTA stressed that ticket sales within Nigeria should reasonably accommodate local currency transactions, especially given that the services are being marketed within the country.
Industry stakeholders also worry that the development could deepen inequality in access to international travel, reserving it primarily for those with privileged access to foreign exchange. This, they argue, contradicts broader goals of inclusivity and economic participation within the aviation sector.
Implications for Travel Agencies and the Aviation Sector
The association highlighted the negative impact of the policy on local travel agencies, many of whom depend on naira-based transactions to serve their clients. By enforcing dollar payments, foreign airlines are effectively bypassing traditional agency channels or forcing agencies into complex and costly currency conversion processes.
NANTA warned that this could weaken the role of licensed travel agencies in Nigeria, potentially leading to job losses and reduced sectoral growth. It further argued that such practices may violate existing regulatory frameworks designed to protect local businesses and ensure fair competition within the aviation industry.
Additionally, concerns were raised about the broader economic implications. The demand for dollars to purchase tickets could place further strain on Nigeria’s already pressured foreign exchange market, contributing to currency instability and inflationary pressures.
Calls for Regulatory Intervention and Industry Dialogue
In response to these developments, NANTA has called on regulatory authorities, including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, to intervene and ensure compliance with local economic policies. The association urged regulators to engage airlines in constructive dialogue aimed at finding balanced solutions that protect both operators and consumers.
NANTA also emphasised the need for collaborative efforts between airlines, government agencies, and industry stakeholders to address the underlying issues—such as foreign exchange repatriation—without imposing disproportionate burdens on Nigerian travellers.
The association reiterated its commitment to advocating for fair business practices and ensuring that the Nigerian travel market remains accessible, competitive, and aligned with national economic interests.
Table of Contents
Discover more from OGM News NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
