Nigeria's Aviation Tax Burden Hurting Airlines and Travelers
The Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines (UNA), Professor Obiora Okonkwo, has declared Nigeria one of Africa's most heavily taxed aviation markets, stating that excessive levies are driving up ticket prices and distorting competition in West African air travel.
Speaking ahead of UNA's official launch of commercial flights on the Lagos-Accra and Abuja-Accra routes on Monday, November 10, 2025, Okonkwo revealed that the cumulative taxes imposed on Nigerian airlines far exceed what operators face in neighboring countries.
Stark Tax Comparison with Ghana
"A passenger tax here in this airport is $100. In Ghana it's $60. I don't know why ours should be higher," Okonkwo stated during preparations at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
He emphasized that Nigeria ranks among the most taxed aviation jurisdictions in Africa, with numerous deductions applied to every ticket sold. According to his calculations, when all charges are combined, a Lagos-Accra return ticket carries approximately $116 in taxes alone - before airlines even price the actual flight service component.
Expansion and Tribute to Pan-African Legacy
As part of its Ghana entry strategy, United Nigeria Airlines will honor the late Ghanaian President, Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, by unveiling one of its aircraft in his name. This symbolic gesture celebrates a Pan-African icon and demonstrates the airline's commitment to strengthening regional ties.
Okonkwo confirmed that members of the Rawlings family will attend the official aircraft unveiling ceremony in Accra, following a mock arrival-and-departure session he supervised in Abuja.
Immediate Market Impact and Safety Standards
The UNA chairman revealed that the airline's mere announcement of Accra operations had already created positive market effects. "Before we announced Accra operations, only one airline was flying that route directly. Immediately we signalled entry, fares dropped by almost 50%," he noted, highlighting the value of Nigerian participation in regional aviation.
On safety, Okonkwo stressed that Nigeria maintains among the strictest regulatory regimes globally, with pilots undergoing simulator recertification every six months - twice as frequently as their counterparts in Europe or the United States.
Call for Tax Reform and Future Expansion
Okonkwo urged the Nigerian government to reduce multiple taxes and create a single-window approach to aviation finance, warning that high charges ultimately suppress economic activity. "If people cannot move, commerce cannot expand," he emphasized.
The Ghana entry represents only Phase One of UNA's expansion strategy. The airline plans to add six more aircraft to its fleet in the coming months and intends to connect more African destinations before eventually expanding into intercontinental operations.
By combining strategic growth with symbolic tributes to African leadership, United Nigeria Airlines aims to strengthen Nigeria's position in regional aviation while improving affordability and service options for West African travelers.
