Federal Government forms new oversight committee to lower aviation taxes and align with ECOWAS regional policies.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially inaugurated the National Air Transport Economic Oversight Committee in Abuja. The newly established body aims to coordinate nationwide efforts to address mounting complaints regarding high aviation taxes, charges, and fees across the country.

During the inauguration ceremony held at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority headquarters, officials emphasized the critical need for Nigeria to comply fully with the regional aviation policy established by the Economic Community of West African States, ensuring fair competition and transparency.

The policy push follows the adoption of the ECOWAS Supplementary Act A/SA.2/12/24 during the 66th Ordinary Session held in Abuja. According to information published by NIGERIA, the committee will actively monitor compliance, identify implementation gaps, and recommend necessary regulatory policy adjustments.

Implementing the ECOWAS Aviation Policy in Nigeria

The Director-General of Civil Aviation, Chris Najomo, who was represented by the Director of Air Transport Regulation, Mrs Olayinka Babaoye-Iriobe, stated that the committee will serve as the primary national coordinating platform for regional obligations.

According to the official NCAA statement, the committee is expected to design a practical implementation roadmap and ensure official publication of the framework in the national gazette, while collaborating closely with relevant regional institutions.

Addressing High Aviation Taxes and Industry Pressures

Operators relying on data from the International Air Transport Association have continued to lament that Nigeria remains among the countries imposing the highest aviation taxes and charges anywhere in Africa, significantly increasing the overall cost of flying.

Mrs Olayinka Babaoye-Iriobe elaborated that the committee must ensure the supplementary act translates into practical and measurable national actions in strict conformity with ICAO Doc 9082 through sustained engagement with domestic airlines and stakeholders.

Legal Framework and Regulatory Alignment

Speaking at the event, the Director of Legal Services and Company Secretary, Mrs Mary Tufano-Eche, urged members to pay close attention to the legal provisions underpinning the regional framework.

She stressed the vital importance of examining relevant legislative frameworks to ensure the regional policy is successfully incorporated into the Nigerian aviation system without creating conflicts with existing domestic laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the National Air Transport Economic Oversight Committee?

It is a newly inaugurated Nigerian committee tasked with coordinating efforts to address high aviation taxes, charges, and fees while ensuring compliance with the ECOWAS regional aviation policy.

What is the ECOWAS Supplementary Act governing aviation?

Adopted by the Authority of Heads of State and Government on December 15, 2024, the Supplementary Act A/SA.2/12/24 establishes a common policy on aviation charges across ECOWAS member states to make air travel more affordable.

Who leads the Nigerian civil aviation regulatory authority?

The Director-General of Civil Aviation in Nigeria is Chris Najomo, whose agency oversees the implementation of national and regional aviation policies from its headquarters in Abuja.