Domestic air travel fare rises 20.8% in May

Domestic air travel fares in Nigeria saw a significant jump in May 2026, rising by 20.8 percent compared to the same month in the previous year. According to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the average fare for a single journey on domestic flights reached N157,552.19, marking a substantial increase from N130,361.85 in May 2025. This surge in costs reflects broader trends in the country's transport sector, where multiple modes of transportation experienced notable price hikes.

The rise in air travel fares was accompanied by similar increases across other transport sectors. For instance, urban bus fares saw a dramatic 38.63 percent increase, with the average cost per trip reaching N1,431.25 in May 2026, up from N1,032.46 in May 2025. Intercity bus journeys also witnessed a 21.89 percent increase, averaging N9,699.55 per trip, compared to N7,957.41 in the prior year. Okada transportation, a popular informal mode of transport, experienced one of the most rapid increases, with fares climbing by 52.45 percent to N1,072.51 per ride. Water transport fares also rose, increasing by 30.88 percent to N2,276.48 per trip.

Regional variations were evident in the pricing of air travel. In Kano State, the average fare for a single journey was the highest at N184,139.29, while Lagos State came in second with N176,971.65. Conversely, Gombe and Nasarawa states recorded the lowest fares among all states, at N135,800.61 and N138,999.14 respectively. These disparities suggest that regional economic conditions, infrastructure developments, and regulatory policies might have influenced the varying levels of fare increases.

The NBS report provides a comprehensive overview of how transport costs have evolved over the past year, highlighting the impact of inflationary pressures and operational challenges faced by transport providers. While the exact causes behind these fare hikes remain largely unaddressed in the report, industry experts speculate that factors such as fuel prices, maintenance costs, and service quality improvements could have contributed to the upward trend.

Reactions from stakeholders have been mixed. Some transport operators argue that the increased fares are necessary to cover rising operational expenses and ensure sustainable services. Others, particularly passengers and advocacy groups, have expressed concerns about the financial burden on regular commuters and the potential negative effects on economic activity. There has been growing calls for government intervention to regulate transport pricing and protect consumers from excessive cost increases.

Looking ahead, the situation is likely to evolve based on several factors, including policy responses from the government, market dynamics, and consumer behavior. If current trends continue, further adjustments in transport pricing could be anticipated, potentially leading to more pronounced impacts on both individuals and businesses reliant on these services. As the NBS continues to monitor and publish updates on transport fares, the ongoing dialogue between regulators, operators, and the public will play a crucial role in shaping future outcomes.