The Federal Government reacts to stop the shutdown of Airline operations

Following Airline Operators of Nigeria, AON, threatening to shut down temporarily tomorrow over the high cost of jet fuel, the federal government has urged the union to give it time to find ways to resolve the issue.

The Minister for Aviation made the appeal in a statement signed by his Special Assistant for Public Affairs, James Odaudu.

The statement said: "The attention of the Honorable Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, has been drawn to reports that the country's air transport system will stop working from Monday, 9 as a result of the rising cost of Jet A1, also known as aviation fuel.

"As the ministry charged with managing the industry, we are deeply concerned about the difficulties faced by airlines in the country in sourcing aviation fuel, which has led to skyrocketing costs in aviation in the recent past.

"We also recognize that airlines are in business to make a profit while serving the very critical sector, which is not only the preferred mode of transportation for most Nigerians but also the main international gateway to the country."

"Unfortunately, the issue of fuel supply is not within the Ministry's remit and therefore, in the current situation, it can only work with authorities, institutions and individuals who can help the airlines. This is already being done by the relevant team, led by the Honorable Minister.

"As efforts to calm the situation continue, we would like to appeal to airlines to consider the multiplier effect of the suspension of operations on Nigerians and global travellers when making their business-informed decisions and actions, even in the difficult situation."

“We assure Nigerians, particularly sector stakeholders, that the Buhari Government remains impassive in its commitment to creating and maintaining an environment conducive to the growth of the airline industry, where major players such as airlines can operate profitably and competitively in the market ."