Nigeria’s aviation sector is facing fresh scrutiny after the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) revealed evidence suggesting price manipulation by local airlines during the 2025 festive season.
The discovery is detailed in the Commission’s interim report released Thursday following an industry-wide investigation launched earlier in January.
According to the findings, ticket prices surged sharply during the December holiday period, far beyond what could be explained by normal operating costs.
The Commission compared airfare data from December 2025 with post-peak fares recorded in January 2026.
Its analysis shows festive fares were significantly higher across multiple domestic routes, even though key cost drivers such as fuel prices, taxes and foreign exchange remained relatively stable.
Investigators say the price gaps appear to reflect airlines’ internal pricing decisions rather than external economic pressures.
The report noted that reduced seat availability during peak demand periods coincided with higher fares, especially on busy travel corridors like Abuja to Port Harcourt.
On some routes, the difference between peak and post-peak ticket prices reached as high as ₦405,000 for a single journey.
Despite the striking findings, the Commission says the investigation is not yet complete.
Seasonal travel demand, aircraft scheduling and fleet utilisation are still being assessed as possible contributing factors.
Speaking on the interim report, FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and CEO Tunji Bello explained the purpose of the review.
“This assessment is intended to provide clarity on pricing behaviour during predictable peak travel periods. The Commission’s role is not to disrupt legitimate commercial activity, but to ensure that market outcomes remain consistent with competition and consumer protection principles under the law.”
He emphasised that final regulatory action will depend on the full outcome of the investigation.
“It is important to emphasise that this is an interim report. Our next action will be dictated by full facts established at the end of the review exercise.”
Beyond local carriers, the FCCPC also signalled plans to investigate foreign airlines operating in Nigeria.
The move follows repeated complaints that Nigerians pay higher fares on international routes compared with travellers flying similar distances from neighbouring countries.
If confirmed, the findings could trigger regulatory guidance, enforcement measures, or industry reforms aimed at protecting consumers and promoting fair competition.
For now, the Commission says the probe continues, and the aviation industry is firmly under watch.