As the holiday season approaches, Nigerian air travellers are strongly opposing the reintroduction of dollar-only ticket sales by some international airlines operating in the country. The policy, which requires passengers to pay for flights exclusively in US dollars, has sparked widespread outrage, with critics calling it exploitative and a violation of Nigeria’s monetary sovereignty.
Passengers interviewed at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos, Nigeria’s busiest aviation hub, expressed concern that the dollar-only policy will further inflate airfares during the festive period, making travel unaffordable for many families. The frustration has been compounded by a new $11.50 Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) fee announced by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), effective 1 December 2025. The NCAA says the fee will enhance airport security and streamline passenger clearance, but critics argue it adds to the financial burden without sufficient justification.
Aderele James, a Morocco-bound traveller, condemned the dollar-only requirement, calling it “disrespectful and unacceptable.” He urged the Nigerian government to intervene, stating, “This is Nigeria, a sovereign state. The legal tender is the naira, and so should it be across all transactions.”
Mrs Lawson, another passenger, described the policy as discriminatory and vowed to boycott any airline that refuses payment in naira. Industry professionals have echoed these sentiments. Yinka Folami, President of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agents, warned that excluding the naira from transactions undermines Nigeria’s economy and puts unnecessary pressure on the currency.
“Opening ticket sales in naira will empower thousands of young agents, create jobs, and boost the economy,” Folami said, urging airlines to show confidence in Nigeria’s improving fiscal outlook.
With festive travel demand rising, stakeholders are calling for swift government action to protect consumer rights and ensure that air travel remains accessible to Nigerians in their own currency.
